The Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has publicly declared its support for foreign military assistance, including recent United States airstrikes, to help Nigeria combat its severe security crisis. This reaction follows the confirmed US military action against ISIS-linked militants in Sokoto State, northwest Nigeria, on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025.
NOSCEF Chairman Condemns Opposition to Foreign Help
Elder Sunday Oibe, the Chairman of NOSCEF, described Nigeria's security situation as an existential crisis requiring decisive and collaborative action. He strongly criticized individuals and groups opposing the reported United States military intervention against terrorist groups operating within the country.
"In whatever way this help comes as long as the Nigerian government is in the know, it is a welcome development," Oibe stated, as reported by Vanguard. He emphasized that Nigerians have suffered for too long due to the activities of these criminals, whom he labeled "enemies of humanity."
Questioning the Logic of Opposition
The Christian elders expressed bewilderment at any resistance to efforts aimed at eliminating terrorists. "Why should any sane mind be against rooting out these criminals by whatever means necessary?" Oibe questioned. He pointed to recent tragedies, such as the bombing of innocent worshippers inside a mosque in Maiduguri, as evidence of the urgent need for effective action.
Oibe insisted that the nationality of those providing assistance is irrelevant. "Whether it is American, Indian, or Togolese support that will help Nigeria uproot this evil, it should be welcomed," he said. The primary objective, according to NOSCEF, must be to end terrorism and restore peace so that citizens can live freely without fear.
Official Reactions to the Christmas Day Airstrikes
The United States War Department launched the airstrikes on Thursday, December 25, 2025, targeting a foreign ISIS-linked terrorists' camp in Sokoto State. The operation was conducted at the formal request of Nigerian authorities.
The Nigerian military, through the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Samaila Uba, has broken its silence on the operation, providing further details. Simultaneously, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed ongoing security cooperation with the United States to combat terrorism within Nigeria's borders.
The federal government reiterated its commitment to civilian protection and human rights in all counter-terrorism efforts, even amid international collaboration. Former US President Donald Trump, who had threatened military intervention in Nigeria in November, described the recent airstrikes as 'powerful and deadly.'
The stance of the Northern Christian Elders underscores a significant segment of public opinion that prioritizes practical security solutions over geopolitical sensitivities, highlighting the desperate need for respite from relentless terrorist and bandit attacks across the nation.
