The Federal Government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially confirmed the origin of the mysterious explosions that rocked parts of Offa, Kwara State, on Christmas night. The government states that debris from expended munitions used in a United States-backed military operation against ISIS-linked militants in Sokoto State fell in the area.
Government Statement Details Christmas Night Incident
In a statement issued on Friday, December 26, 2025, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, provided clarity on the unsettling events. The explosions, which occurred on the evening of December 25, damaged homes, shops, and a hotel in Offa, causing panic among residents.
Idris explained that the operation was conducted at the request of Nigerian authorities. The United States had announced military action against ISIS-affiliated militants in Sokoto, located in northwest Nigeria. This development followed earlier remarks by former US President Donald Trump in November, where he threatened potential military intervention in Nigeria.
Precision Strike: Details of the Military Operation
The minister offered specific technical details about the mission. He stated that the operation involved the deployment of 16 GPS-guided precision munitions. These weapons were launched from MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial platforms, which were operated from maritime platforms stationed in the Gulf of Guinea.
"During the course of the operation, debris from expended munitions fell in Jabo, Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, and in Offa, Kwara State, near the premises of a hotel," Idris said in the official statement.
No Civilian Casualties, Areas Secured
A crucial point emphasized by the Federal Government is the absence of civilian harm. The statement categorically noted that no civilian casualties were recorded in either Offa, Kwara, or Jabo in Sokoto State.
Furthermore, Idris assured the public that relevant authorities had promptly secured the affected areas following the incident. This confirmation aims to allay fears and provide a definitive explanation for the loud explosions and subsequent discovery of debris, which had sparked various speculations across the region.
The government's announcement finally puts to rest the uncertainty surrounding the Christmas night disturbances, directly linking them to a broader international counter-terrorism effort within Nigeria's borders.
