In a revealing statement, former United States President Donald Trump has broken his silence on a recent military operation in Nigeria, claiming he personally ordered its delay to create a symbolic 'Christmas present'. The airstrikes, targeting Islamic State-linked militants, were executed a day after Christmas in a rare, direct US military action within Nigeria's counter-terrorism landscape.
Trump's Personal Decision on Strike Timing
Speaking in an interview with Politico, Trump disclosed that the operation was initially scheduled for an earlier date. He asserted that he intervened, instructing officials to postpone the strikes. "They were going to do it earlier, and I said, 'Nope, let's give a Christmas present,'" Trump stated. He framed the timing as a strategic surprise, claiming the militants were caught completely off guard. "They didn't expect it at all. Every camp got decimated," he added, emphasizing the operation's effectiveness.
The former president first announced the action on social media, positioning it as retaliation for what he described as the killing of Christians by Islamic State militants at historically high levels. This public announcement immediately sparked intense debate within Nigeria, with many citizens and analysts questioning whether the operation respected the nation's sovereignty and if the Nigerian government had granted prior authorization.
Nigerian Government Confirms Joint Coordination
In response to the growing concerns, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu moved swiftly to clarify the situation. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, confirmed that the airstrikes were a product of joint coordination between Nigerian and American authorities. Idris stressed that the operation was conducted with full Nigerian approval and direct participation.
"The operation was carried out under established command and control structures, with the full involvement of the Armed Forces of Nigeria," the Minister explained. He described the action as part of the ongoing intelligence-sharing and strategic cooperation framework between Abuja and Washington. Officials also confirmed that President Tinubu had granted his approval before the mission was executed.
Targets and Aftermath of the Sokoto Operation
Nigerian authorities identified the specific targets as two Islamic State enclaves located within the Bauni forest area of Tangaza Local Government in Sokoto State. The strikes were conducted using guided missiles fired from MQ-9 Reaper drones, which operated from maritime platforms in the Gulf of Guinea. The US Africa Command acknowledged multiple casualties but did not specify the exact faction affected.
While debris from the powerful explosions was reported in parts of Sokoto State and neighbouring Kwara State, the Federal Government assured the public that no civilian lives were lost. "Relevant authorities promptly secured the affected areas," Minister Idris stated, adding that Nigeria's national security architecture remained firmly under control. The government reiterated its commitment to dismantling transnational terrorist networks and urged citizens to remain calm as coordinated counter-terrorism efforts continue.
