BREAKING: US launches air strikes on ISIS targets in Northwest Nigeria

The United States has launched a series of air strikes on Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists operating in Sokoto State, in Nigeria’s north-west, marking a significant escalation in international counter-terrorism cooperation.

The extremist group, known locally as the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), has traditionally operated in Nigeria’s North-East and the Lake Chad Basin, but recent intelligence reports suggest its expansion into parts of the North-West.

In a post on Truth Social, US President Donald Trump described the strikes as “powerful and deadly,” confirming that the operation was carried out on his direct orders.

The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) also confirmed the operation in a statement posted on X, noting that the air strikes were conducted at the request of Nigerian authorities.

“Lethal strikes against ISIS demonstrate the strength of our military and our commitment to eliminating terrorist threats against Americans at home and abroad,” AFRICOM said.

President Trump, who had previously threatened military action in Nigeria over alleged attacks on Christians, said the air raids were aimed at stopping what he described as the targeted killing of innocent civilians.

“Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS terrorist scum in Northwest Nigeria,” Trump said.

“I previously warned these terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughter, there would be hell to pay. Tonight, there was.”

Reacting to the development, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the strikes, describing them as precision hits carried out under existing security cooperation agreements between Nigeria and its international partners.

In a statement signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the federal government said the operation was consistent with international law and bilateral understandings.

“Nigerian authorities remain engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America, in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism,” the statement read.

“This cooperation includes intelligence sharing, strategic coordination and targeted air strikes, while respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and commitment to protecting civilian lives.”

The government emphasised that terrorism, whether directed at Christians, Muslims or other communities, remains unacceptable and contrary to Nigeria’s values.

“The Federal Government will continue to work closely with its partners to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their financing and logistics, and strengthen Nigeria’s security institutions,” the statement added.

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