The United States has launched targeted airstrikes against Islamic State–linked militants in northwestern Nigeria, aiming to curb the ongoing violence that has plagued the region for years. President Donald Trump described the operations as “powerful and deadly,” noting that the militants had been attacking civilians, particularly Christians.
Trump said the strikes were meant to neutralize fighters who were “viciously targeting and killing innocent people,” signaling an escalation of US involvement in Nigeria’s fight against extremist groups.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Security Forces
Nigeria’s military has faced persistent challenges in combating multiple armed groups across the country. Limited resources and manpower have often left forces overstretched, especially in remote areas where militants exploit weak government presence.
The US airstrikes provide a significant boost to Nigerian operations, complementing local efforts that include air campaigns and expanded recruitment into the armed forces. Despite these measures, security forces continue to struggle against well-entrenched extremist networks.
International Collaboration to Combat Terrorism
Nigeria’s foreign ministry confirmed that the strikes were part of structured cooperation with international partners, including the United States. The partnership has enabled more precise targeting of militant strongholds in the northwest.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized that insecurity affects all Nigerians, regardless of religion or region, reaffirming the country’s commitment to religious tolerance. The US has previously labeled Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” due to threats to religious freedom, highlighting the international attention on the country’s security situation.
Persistent Threats from Extremist Groups
Jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have inflicted severe violence in Nigeria’s northeast for more than a decade, killing thousands of people. While Christians have been among the victims, many attacks have also targeted Muslim communities.
In northwestern Nigeria, the Islamic State Sahel Province, locally called Lakurawa, has been expanding its influence. US and Nigerian officials have not specified which groups were directly hit by the recent strikes.
Experts stress that military action alone cannot resolve Nigeria’s security issues. Defence Minister Christopher Musa has said that while military operations address roughly 30% of the problem, the majority depends on good governance, economic development, and addressing underlying social challenges such as poverty and unemployment.
