…as Sokoto Gov’t confirms no casualties
The Federal Government has clarified that the recent United States airstrikes on terrorist targets in Nigeria were carried out as part of a joint operation anchored on structured security cooperation between Nigeria and its international partners.
The clarification followed widespread reports and reactions after a post by United States President, Donald Trump, referencing air operations against terrorist groups in Nigeria’s North-West region.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said Nigeria remains actively engaged in coordinated security collaboration with partners, including the United States, to confront terrorism and violent extremism.
According to the statement, the cooperation, which involves intelligence sharing, strategic coordination and operational support, led to precision airstrikes on identified terrorist targets in the North-West.
The ministry stressed that all engagements were conducted in line with international law, with full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and shared commitments to regional and global security.
“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 statement noted, reaffirming the government’s zero tolerance for attacks on civilians.
It added that all counter-terrorism operations prioritise civilian protection, national unity, and the rights and dignity of citizens, while efforts continue to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their financing and logistics, and prevent cross-border threats.
Meanwhile, the Sokoto State Government has confirmed that no civilian casualties were recorded during the joint Nigeria–US airstrike carried out in parts of the state.
In a statement issued by the Director-General of Media and Publicity, Government House, Sokoto, Abubakar Bawa, the state government said the operation targeted terrorist enclaves in Tangaza Local Government Area as part of sustained efforts to dismantle bandit and terrorist networks operating in the state and along the North-West corridor.
Bawa said the extent of damage inflicted on the targeted enclaves was still being assessed, as reports from joint operations were being awaited.
He also addressed public concerns over suspicious objects reportedly found near Jabo town in Tambuwal Local Government Area, explaining that investigations were ongoing and that analysis by Nigeria–US military authorities would determine their nature.
The Sokoto State Government welcomed the collaboration between Nigeria and the United States, describing it as a crucial step toward curbing terrorism and cross-border crimes, while reiterating its commitment to supporting security agencies with logistics and operational assistance.
Residents of affected communities were urged to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies by providing credible intelligence, and continue to support ongoing efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and security in the state and the country at large.
