Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters has confirmed that the recent air operations targeting Islamic State (ISIS) fighters in the North-West were carried out jointly by Nigerian and United States forces with full authorization from the Federal Government.
The confirmation was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba. The statement said the strikes were part of coordinated military efforts aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and other armed groups threatening Nigeria’s security.
According to the Defence Headquarters, the air operations were guided by credible intelligence and followed extensive operational planning. The objective, it said, was to weaken the operational capacity of the targeted extremists while keeping civilian harm to the barest minimum.
Major General Uba explained that the joint action underscores Nigeria’s determination, alongside trusted international partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign extremist elements from gaining a foothold within the country.
He added that the collaboration reflects a lawful and strategic approach to addressing evolving security challenges, stressing that all actions were carried out within approved frameworks.
Reaffirming the military’s mandate, the Defence Headquarters said the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain fully committed to protecting lives and property across the country. It noted that the military will continue to support joint, inter-agency and international initiatives aimed at restoring peace and stability nationwide.
The airstrikes come amid heightened concern from the United States over rising extremist violence in northern Nigeria. U.S. officials had previously accused ISIS-linked groups of intensifying attacks, particularly in Sokoto State near the Niger border, with Christian communities reportedly among those most affected.
Earlier in November, U.S. President Donald Trump had directed the Pentagon to prepare for potential action if stronger measures were not taken to curb attacks on vulnerable religious groups.
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Nigerian authorities have maintained that counter-terrorism efforts remain focused on protecting all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity, while strengthening cooperation with partners to counter both domestic and cross-border security threats.
