A complete of 16 GPS-guided precision munitions have been deployed utilizing MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial platforms in a joint Nigeria–United States operation that focused Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist enclaves in Sokoto State.
That is in line with a press release by Nigeria’s Minister of Data and Nationwide Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
The strikes, carried out between 00:12 hours and 01:30 hours on Friday, December 26, 2025, neutralised ISIS parts trying to infiltrate Nigeria from the Sahel hall.
What the minister is saying
In accordance with Idris, the operation was authorised by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and executed underneath established command and management buildings with full involvement of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“The precision strikes hit two main ISIS meeting and staging grounds inside the Bauni forest axis of Tangaza Native Authorities Space, Sokoto State,” he mentioned.
Idris added that Intelligence confirmed the websites have been being utilized by international ISIS fighters in collaboration with native associates to plan large-scale assaults inside Nigeria.
“The strikes have been launched from maritime platforms within the Gulf of Guinea after intensive intelligence gathering, operational planning, and reconnaissance,” the assertion added.
No civilian casualties reported
He confirmed that particles from expended munitions fell in Jabo, Tambuwal Native Authorities Space of Sokoto State, and in Offa, Kwara State, close to a lodge, including that “No civilian casualties have been recorded, and safety companies promptly secured the affected areas”.
The Federal Authorities reiterated its dedication to defending lives and property, stressing that Nigeria stays firmly in charge of its nationwide safety structure.
“The Federal Authorities of Nigeria reiterates its unwavering resolve to confront, degrade, and eradicate terrorist threats, notably these posed by transnational extremist networks in search of to undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and safety,” Idris mentioned.
What it is best to know
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, had earlier confirmed Nigeria’s approval and intelligence help for the strikes, stressing that the operation didn’t violate the nation’s sovereignty.
“It’s Nigeria that supplied the intelligence,” Tuggar mentioned, including that the strikes have been strictly counter-terrorism operations and never directed at any spiritual group.
He revealed that he personally sought and obtained President Tinubu’s approval earlier than the operation was carried out, following consultations with U.S. officers.
Extra perception
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed he authorised the strike in opposition to ISIS bases in north-west Nigeria. The U.S. army mentioned camps close to the Niger border have been hit, with preliminary assessments suggesting “a number of fatalities.”
Secretary of Battle Pete Hegseth praised Nigerian cooperation and warned of additional actions.
In a put up on X, Hegseth wrote: “The President was clear final month: the killing of harmless Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) should finish. The @DeptofWar is at all times prepared, so ISIS came upon tonight — on Christmas.”
He added: “Grateful for Nigerian authorities help & cooperation. Merry Christmas! Extra to return…”
Nigeria reaffirmed its alignment with strategic companions in coordinated actions geared toward making certain lasting peace, border safety, and regional stability. Residents have been urged to stay calm and vigilant as decisive actions proceed in opposition to terrorist teams threatening the nation.
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