The Federal Government has officially confirmed that coordinated air strikes were conducted against terrorist targets in the northwestern region of Nigeria. The confirmation was provided by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, in a statement issued on Friday, December 26, 2025.
Structured Security Cooperation with International Partners
In the statement delivered by his spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Minister Tuggar detailed Nigeria's engagement in structured security cooperation with international partners, notably the United States. This collaboration aims to tackle the persistent threats of terrorism and violent extremism.
The minister's statement clarified that the actions were consistent with established bilateral practices between Nigeria and the US. "The Ministry confirms that Nigerian authorities engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the U.S.," the statement read. This cooperation framework encompasses:
- Exchange of intelligence
- Strategic coordination
- Other forms of support that respect international law and sovereignty
Guiding Principles and US Commendation
Minister Tuggar strongly reiterated the principles guiding Nigeria's counter-terrorism efforts. He emphasized the primacy of protecting civilian lives, safeguarding national unity, and upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity.
"Terrorist violence in any form, whether directed at Christians, Muslims or other communities, remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security," the Minister stated. He assured the public that the government would continue to work through diplomatic and security channels to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt financing, and prevent cross-border threats.
In a related development, the United States Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, commended the Nigerian Government for its cooperation during the coordinated air strikes on Christmas Day. Hegseth, in a post on X, described the operation as part of a broader US-led action to dismantle terrorist networks in the region, sending a clear message to extremist groups.
Background and Future Engagement
The air strikes followed an order by US President Donald Trump on Thursday for action against ISIS militants operating in northwestern Nigeria. The US government had previously pledged additional support to boost surveillance and counter-terror efforts in the North.
Minister Tuggar concluded by stating that the Federal Government remains committed to strengthening Nigeria's own security institutions and intelligence capabilities. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs pledged to continue engaging relevant partners and keeping the public informed through appropriate official channels.
