The Armed Forces of Nigeria have described the recent airstrikes in the North West as a clear indication of the Federal Government’s determination to combat terrorism, carried out in partnership with the United States.
The Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, stated this in a statement released on Friday in Abuja.
He explained that the operation was based on credible intelligence and carefully planned to weaken terrorist capabilities while limiting collateral damage.
Uba said the strikes were executed with the approval of relevant authorities and formed part of ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorists and other criminal groups posing threats to national security.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in conjunction with the United States of America, has successfully conducted precision strike operations against identified foreign ISIS-linked elements operating in parts of North West Nigeria,” Uba said.
He added, “The strikes followed credible intelligence and careful operational planning aimed at degrading the operational capabilities of the terrorists while minimising collateral damage.”
According to him, the operation reflects the resolve of the Federal Government, working alongside key international partners, to counter transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from establishing or expanding their presence within Nigeria.
“This action clearly demonstrates the unwavering resolve of the Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with strategic international partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from gaining any foothold within our borders,” he said.
The defence spokesman reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to safeguarding lives and property across the country.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains fully committed to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians and will continue to support joint, inter-agency and international efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across the country,” Uba said.
Earlier on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that Nigeria continues to engage in structured security and intelligence cooperation with international partners, including the United States, to address terrorism and violent extremism.
In a statement signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the ministry said the partnership includes intelligence sharing, strategic coordination and other forms of support consistent with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty and shared security obligations.
The ministry noted that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism approach prioritises the protection of civilians, the preservation of national unity and the defence of the rights of all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity. It added that terrorist violence against any group remains contrary to Nigeria’s values and a threat to international peace and security.
The Foreign Affairs Ministry’s statement followed remarks by United States President Donald Trump, who said on Thursday that U.S. forces had conducted deadly strikes against Islamic State targets in Northwestern Nigeria.
In a separate social media post, United States Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the operation was carried out with the cooperation of the Nigerian government and expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s support.
The airstrikes came a day after a bomb attack on a mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, which killed five people and left dozens injured. Authorities have described the incident as a suspected suicide bombing, underscoring ongoing security challenges in parts of the country.
