The Nigerian military has officially confirmed that it conducted a joint counter-terrorism operation with the United States, targeting foreign fighters linked to the Islamic State (ISIS) in parts of Northwest Nigeria.
Official Confirmation from Defence Headquarters
Director of Defence Information, Major-General Samaila Uba, confirmed the operation in a statement released in the early hours of Friday, December 26, 2025. He stated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in conjunction with U.S. forces, executed precision strikes against identified foreign ISIS-linked elements.
The operation was carried out with the approval of the appropriate Federal Government authorities. General Uba emphasized that this action is part of ongoing coordinated efforts to eliminate terrorists and other criminal networks that threaten Nigeria's national security.
"The strike followed credible intelligence and careful operational planning aimed at degrading the capability of the targeted elements while minimising collateral damage," the statement read. It further underscored the government's resolve, alongside strategic partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from establishing bases within the country.
Trump's Announcement and Seasonal Warning
The confirmation from the Defence Headquarters came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump announced the action on his Truth Social platform on Thursday night. Trump linked the military operation directly to the killing of Christians by terrorist groups.
"I have previously warned these terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay, and tonight, there was," President Trump wrote. He credited the "Department of War" with executing what he called "numerous perfect strikes, as only the United States is capable of doing."
In a message combining the operation update with seasonal greetings, Trump added a stark warning: "Merry Christmas, including the dead terrorists, of which there will be many more if their slaughter of Christians continues." He reiterated that his administration would not tolerate extremist violence, stating, "Under my leadership, our country will not allow radical Islamic terrorism to prosper."
Significance and Regional Context
This event marks a rare public acknowledgement of foreign combat operations on Nigerian soil, a matter that is typically diplomatically sensitive. The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and other armed groups have been active not only in the Northeast but have also expanded operations into the Northwest, attacking civilians, security forces, and religious communities.
The Defence Headquarters reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to protecting lives and property and supporting joint inter-agency efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the nation.
This coordinated strike highlights the evolving nature of international security cooperation in the fight against terrorism in the Sahel region and represents a significant escalation in direct external military involvement within Nigeria's borders.
