Former Nigerian lawmaker Shehu Sani has directly attributed the relatively peaceful Christmas season experienced across many parts of the country to the sustained work of national security agencies, dismissing suggestions that a single United States military action was the decisive factor.
Debunking the External Narrative
In a post on the social media platform X on 28 December 2025, Sani pushed back against claims made by US Representative Riley, who highlighted a recent American airstrike as key to curbing terrorism during the festive period. The former senator, who represented Kaduna Central, argued that credit belonged squarely to Nigeria's own forces.
"The efforts of our Nigerian defence, security and intelligence services ensured a relatively safe and peaceful Yuletide season in most parts of our country, and not the one off US strike," Sani wrote. His statement followed confirmed airstrikes by the US Africa Command on fighters linked to the Islamic State (ISIS) in parts of Sokoto State, north-west Nigeria.
The Context of Collaboration and Sovereignty
While the United States stated its operation was conducted in coordination with Nigerian authorities as part of broader counterterrorism cooperation, the event sparked a domestic debate. Nigerian officials have consistently confirmed collaboration with foreign partners but maintain that domestic forces are the central pillar of all security operations.
In the period leading up to Christmas, the Nigerian Armed Forces reported multiple operations against insurgent and criminal groups in states including Borno, Zamfara, Katsina, and Niger. Intelligence services also claimed success in disrupting planned attacks and arresting suspected collaborators.
Security agencies have pointed to improved inter-agency cooperation among the army, air force, police, and local vigilante groups as a significant factor in enhancing response times and overall effectiveness.
Internal Efforts vs. External Intervention
The US strike in Sokoto drew mixed reactions within Nigeria. Some citizens welcomed the international assistance against entrenched extremist groups, while others voiced strong concerns about national sovereignty and the risk of overstating the impact of external intervention.
This aligns with Sani's long-stated position on security matters. He has frequently argued that while international cooperation is acceptable, long-term stability depends on strengthening Nigeria's own institutions. He emphasizes addressing the underlying socio-economic drivers of insecurity and ensuring accountability within the domestic security sector.
Despite noting a calmer festive period in some areas, authorities have issued cautions. They warn that armed groups remain active and adaptable, urging the public to maintain vigilance and continue sharing information with law enforcement agencies to sustain the gains.
