United States President Donald Trump has announced that American forces carried out multiple deadly airstrikes against Islamic State fighters operating in northwestern Nigeria, warning that further attacks would follow if violence against Christians continues.
Trump disclosed this on Thursday through his Truth Social platform, stating that the strikes were authorised by him and executed by the U.S. Department of War. He said the operations targeted Islamic State militants accused of carrying out sustained attacks on civilians, particularly Christians, in the region.
According to the president, the strikes were precise and effective, stressing that the United States would not tolerate the spread of extremist violence. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to confronting radical Islamist groups wherever they operate.
In a separate statement on X, U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth acknowledged Nigeria’s cooperation in the operation, noting that Washington had made its position clear regarding the protection of civilians. He said the military action demonstrated U.S. readiness to respond decisively to terrorism.
The U.S. Africa Command later confirmed that the airstrikes were conducted on December 25, 2025, in Sokoto State. The command explained that the operation was carried out under the directive of the U.S. president and defence leadership, in coordination with Nigerian authorities, and resulted in the deaths of several Islamic State operatives.
The strikes came shortly after a deadly explosion at a mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State, which claimed five lives and left dozens injured in what was suspected to be a suicide attack.
Nigeria has continued to grapple with security challenges posed by armed groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, which have carried out repeated attacks across parts of the country.
Last month, Trump warned that the United States could withdraw aid and take stronger military action if Nigeria failed to curb extremist violence against Christians. He also revealed that U.S. defence officials had been instructed to prepare for possible military operations against militant groups in the country.
Since taking office in January, Trump has authorised military strikes in several regions worldwide, including parts of Africa, the Middle East, and international waters, as part of a broader counterterrorism campaign.
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