The Federal Government has confirmed that recent airstrikes on terrorist locations in Nigeria’s North-West were carried out as part of structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said the strikes resulted from ongoing intelligence sharing and strategic coordination aimed at combating terrorism and violent extremism.
The Ministry noted that the cooperation had enabled “precision engagements” against terrorist targets, stressing that the collaboration aligns with international law and respects Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“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,” the statement said.
It explained that the partnership follows established international practice and bilateral understandings, including intelligence exchange and operational coordination.
“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,” the Ministry added.
The government emphasised that the protection of civilians remains the central objective of all counter-terrorism operations.
“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,” the statement said.
It stressed that terrorist violence against any group is unacceptable and contradicts Nigeria’s core values.
“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 Ministry stated.
According to the government, Nigeria continues to work closely with its partners to degrade terrorist networks, disrupt their financing and logistics, and prevent cross-border threats, while also strengthening domestic intelligence and security capabilities.
The Ministry said it would maintain engagement with relevant international partners and keep Nigerians informed through official communication channels.
The confirmation followed statements by United States officials indicating that additional support would be provided to northern states to strengthen surveillance, security operations and counter-terrorism efforts after the recent military action.
On Christmas night, US President Donald Trump announced that American forces had carried out airstrikes against ISIS militants operating in North-West Nigeria, accusing the group of launching deadly attacks against Christians.
US Africa Command later said the strikes targeted ISIS elements in Sokoto State and were conducted in coordination with Nigerian authorities.