Nigeria, US Launch Joint Strikes on Foreign ISIS Cells in North West Nigeria

By Zainab Uzomah

The Nigerian Armed Forces, in collaboration with the United States military, has carried out precision strikes against foreign ISIS-linked fighters operating in parts of North West Nigeria, defence authorities confirmed on Friday.

According to a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the operation received full authorisation from the Federal Government and followed “credible intelligence and careful operational planning” aimed at degrading the militants’ capabilities while minimising collateral damage. He said the strikes form part of ongoing efforts to prevent foreign extremist cells from gaining a foothold within the country.

The Defence Headquarters reiterated the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property and supporting joint and inter-agency actions to restore lasting security nationwide.

US President Confirms Strike

In a post on his official X account, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that the United States carried out what he described as “a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS terrorist scum in Northwest Nigeria.”
He accused the targeted militants of “viciously killing innocent Christians,” adding that he had previously warned the group that there would be consequences if the attacks continued.
“Tonight, there was,” he wrote, framing the action as part of a broader effort to counter ISIS globally.

AFRICOM: Strikes Conducted at Nigeria’s Request

The U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) also confirmed that the operation took place on 25 December and said it was conducted at the request of Nigerian authorities and coordinated closely with Nigerian security agencies. According to AFRICOM, initial assessments indicate that multiple ISIS fighters were neutralised in the strike.

The command said the action aligns with ongoing U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation focused on disrupting terrorist networks operating in the region.

The joint strike comes as Nigeria deepens intelligence-sharing and operational collaboration with international partners in response to threats posed by ISIS-linked groups and other armed actors in the north. Security analysts note that foreign fighters have increasingly sought to embed within local criminal and extremist networks, heightening regional instability.

Authorities in both countries said further details of the Christmas Day operation will be released after ongoing assessments are concluded.