The United States has lauded Nigeria’s cooperation in coordinated air strikes targeting terrorist enclaves in Northwest Nigeria on Christmas Day night.
The operation, part of a broader US-led military action, aimed to dismantle terror networks operating in the region.
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth met with a Nigerian delegation in the US, following Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern by President Donald Trump.
Hegseth expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s support, saying, “The President was clear last month: the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end”.
Hegseth added, “The @DeptofWar is always ready, so ISIS found out tonight — on Christmas. More to come… Grateful for Nigerian government support & cooperation”.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the airstrikes as part of ongoing efforts to counter terrorism and violent extremism.
Spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa on Friday morning in statement said: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria confirms that Nigerian authorities remain engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America”.
Ebienfa noted that the collaboration aligns with global best practices and existing bilateral agreements, prioritizing civilian protection and national sovereignty.
“Nigeria reiterates that all counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the primacy of protecting civilian lives, safeguarding national unity, and upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens”
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