The United States has carried out air strikes against Islamic State (ISIS)-linked militants in Sokoto State, northwest Nigeria, in an operation announced on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025. The action, ordered by U.S. President Donald Trump, comes amid rising concerns over escalating violence in the region.
In a social media post, President Trump said:
“Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria…”
He added that the militants had been “targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even centuries!” and warned that “if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay…”
The strikes were conducted by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) in coordination with Nigerian authorities, targeting multiple suspected ISIS positions. AFRICOM said the operation was executed “at the request of Nigerian authorities” and resulted in the deaths of several ISIS fighters.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s cooperation and cautioned that additional military actions could follow.
The Nigerian government has confirmed the strikes, describing them as part of a structured security cooperation with the United States to counter terrorism and violent extremism. A statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the collaboration includes intelligence sharing and strategic coordination conducted with respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and in accordance with international law.
Analysts note the move marks a significant escalation in international military engagement on Nigerian soil and follows months of diplomatic pressure from Washington over rising militant attacks. Nigeria continues to face a complex security landscape involving various armed groups, with violence impacting communities across religious and ethnic lines.
