Nigerian Military hails successful U.S. strikes on ISIS terrorists in Northwest

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Armed Forces of Nigeria have announced the successful execution of precision airstrikes against identified foreign ISIS-linked terrorist elements in parts of the Northwest region, conducted in close collaboration with the United States.

In a statement released on Friday, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, emphasised that the operation underscores the Federal Government’s firm commitment to eradicating transnational terrorism.

“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 explained that the strikes were based on credible intelligence and meticulous planning, designed to significantly degrade the terrorists’ operational capabilities while prioritising the minimisation of collateral damage.

“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 added.

Uba reaffirmed the military’s dedication to safeguarding Nigerian lives and property, stating: “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.”

The announcement follows confirmation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which highlighted ongoing structured security and intelligence cooperation with international partners, including the United States.

In a separate statement signed by spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the ministry noted that this partnership, encompassing intelligence sharing, strategic coordination, and support aligned with international law and mutual respect for sovereignty, has resulted in effective precision operations against terrorist targets in the Northwest.

The ministry stressed that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy remains focused on protecting civilian lives, promoting national unity, and defending the rights of all citizens regardless of faith or ethnicity.

“Terrorist violence against any religious or ethnic group remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and international peace,” the statement read.

These joint efforts come amid heightened concerns over the infiltration of foreign-linked extremists in the region, where banditry and insurgency have posed persistent challenges to security. Officials have reported no civilian casualties from the strikes, which targeted known militant camps.