The United States military, in coordination with Nigerian authorities, launched airstrikes against ISIS-linked terrorists in Sokoto and Zamfara states, Nigeria, on Christmas day, December 25, 2025. The operation was part of a broader effort to curb extremist attacks and was carried out with intelligence sharing and strategic coordination between the two countries.
United States President Donald Trump announced the strikes, via a post on his Truth Social, stating they targeted terrorists who’ve been killing innocent Christians.
“I have previously warned these Terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay, and tonight, there was.
The Department of War executed numerous perfect strikes, as only the United States is capable of doing. Under my leadership, our Country will not allow Radical Islamic Terrorism to prosper. May God Bless our Militarv, and MERRY CHRISTMAS to all, including the dead Terrorists, of which there will be many more if their slaughter of Christians continues.” Trump added.
The Nigerian government confirmed the joint operation, in a post signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Spokesman Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa which reads in parts:
“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, in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism. This has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by air strikes in the North West.
In line with established international practice and bilateral understandings, this cooperation includes the exchange of intelligence, strategic coordination, and other forms of support consistent with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and shared commitments to regional and global security.
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, irrespective of faith or ethnicity. 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.”
The airstrikes hit terrorist camps in Sokoto’s Tambuwal Local Government Area, with reports indicating multiple ISIS targets were killed. Security forces are on high alert, and investigations are ongoing.
