At a Glance
- US claims powerful strike on Nigerian IS forces targeting Christians
- Trump says strikes were approved by Abuja and coordinated with Nigeria
- Nigerian officials say cooperation was intelligence-based and lawful
- Why it matters: It highlights growing US involvement in Nigeria’s fight against extremist groups and raises questions about sovereignty and the protection of religious minorities
President Donald Trump announced on social media that the United States had carried out a “powerful and deadly” airstrike against Islamic State forces in Nigeria, saying the operation was approved by the Nigerian government and carried out with intelligence cooperation.
US Airstrikes and Nigerian Cooperation
Trump’s post, made on Christmas Eve, did not detail the extent of the damage in Sokoto state. A Defense Department official, who declined to be named, said the strikes were conducted with Nigerian approval.
President Trump said:
> “who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians.”
The official added that the operation was part of a broader partnership that included intelligence exchange and strategic coordination consistent with international law.
- IS West Africa Province
- Lakurawa
- Boko Haram
Targeted Groups and Local Impact
Security analysts suggest the strikes may have aimed at the Lakurawa group, which has expanded its control in Sokoto and Kebbi states. The group has used forested areas as hideouts.
Malik Samuel said:
> “Lakurawa is a group that is actually controlling territories in Nigeria, in Sokoto state and in other states like Kebbi.”
Reactions and Broader Implications
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the cooperation was consistent with international law and respect for sovereignty. It also noted that terrorist violence affects both Christians and Muslims.
Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said:
> “Terrorist violence in any form, whether directed at Christians, Muslims or other communities, remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security.”
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on X that the President had made it clear the killing of innocent Christians must end, adding that more strikes would follow.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said:
> “More to come…Grateful for Nigerian government support & cooperation.”
Key Takeaways
- Trump claims US airstrikes hit Nigerian IS forces targeting Christians.
- The strikes were approved by Abuja and carried out with Nigerian cooperation.
- The move raises questions about sovereignty and the extent of US involvement.
The announcement underscores the U.S. willingness to intervene in Nigeria’s internal security struggles, while Nigerian officials emphasize legal cooperation and sovereignty.
