The ministry stated in a statement that “targets terrorist sites in Nigeria.”
It added: “The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirms that Nigerian authorities continue organized security cooperation with international partners, including the United States, to counter the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism. This cooperation has resulted in precise airstrikes targeting terrorist sites in Nigeria, particularly in the country’s northwest.”
“In line with established international practices and bilateral understandings, this cooperation includes the exchange of intelligence, strategic coordination, and other forms of support, consistent with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and shared commitments to regional and global security.”
The statement continued: “Nigeria reaffirms that all counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the priority of protecting civilian lives, preserving national unity, and safeguarding the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity.”
The statement marks the first official Nigerian comment on the United States’ announcement of a strike on targets of the “” organization in southwestern Nigeria.
On Thursday, the US President announced that his country had conducted a strike targeting the “ISIS” organization in Nigeria.
He said in a post on the “Truth Social” platform: “Tonight, under my direction as Commander-in-Chief, the United States conducted a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS terrorists in northwestern Nigeria.”
The US President claimed that the targets “were brutally killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen in years, or even centuries.”
The US military command stated on the “X” platform that the strike was carried out at the request of Nigerian authorities and resulted in the killing of a number of “ISIS” elements.
This strike comes after, in late October, he began issuing warnings that Christianity was facing an “existential threat” in Nigeria and threatened military intervention in the West African nation due to what he described as its failure to stop violence targeting Christian areas.
Nigeria
Nigeria is a West African country with a rich history shaped by ancient kingdoms like the Nri and Benin, followed by British colonization until it gained independence in 1960. It is Africa’s most populous nation and is renowned for its diverse cultural heritage, including vibrant music, film (Nollywood), and artistic traditions.
United States
The United States is a federal republic founded in 1776 following its Declaration of Independence from Great Britain, with its current government established by the U.S. Constitution in 1789. It grew from thirteen original colonies into a global power, with a history significantly shaped by westward expansion, industrialization, and movements for civil rights. Its diverse culture is a product of immigration and its influential roles in areas such as technology, entertainment, and politics.
Truth Social
Truth Social is a social media platform launched in February 2022 by Trump Media & Technology Group, founded by former U.S. President Donald Trump. It was created following Trump’s bans from major platforms like Twitter and Facebook, positioning itself as a platform promoting free speech and an alternative to what it describes as “Big Tech censorship.”
X
X is a historic site known for its significant cultural and architectural heritage. It was originally constructed during [specific period or dynasty, if known] and has since served various roles throughout its history, such as [mention key historical functions, e.g., a religious center, royal residence, or trading hub]. Today, it remains an important landmark, attracting visitors for its preserved structures and historical value.
ISIS
ISIS, or the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, is a militant jihadist group that emerged in the early 21st century from the remnants of al-Qaeda in Iraq. It gained global notoriety around 2014 for seizing large territories in Iraq and Syria, establishing a self-proclaimed caliphate and committing widespread atrocities. Although its territorial control has been largely dismantled by military campaigns, the group persists as a decentralized network conducting insurgent attacks and inspiring terrorism worldwide.
