Escalating Conflict: US Conducts Airstrikes Against IS Militants in Nigeria

Sun Dec 28 2025 13:16:29 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a significant military action, the US has launched strikes targeting Islamic State-linked militants in Nigeria's Sokoto state, marking a new phase in the fight against terrorism in the region, as President Trump characterizes these actions as a decisive blow against radical groups.

The US has initiated airstrikes against Islamic State affiliates in Nigeria's northwestern Sokoto state, with President Trump framing the operations as a 'Christmas present' to the militant groups. This move comes as part of ongoing efforts to combat growing jihadist influences in the region. Casualties from the strikes are still being assessed, while Nigerian officials suggest this intervention has been long-planned with their government's cooperation. The presence of IS-linked factions has raised concerns over stability and security, especially among local communities.

The US has launched powerful and deadly strikes against militants linked to the Islamic State group (IS) in north-western Nigeria, where militants have sought to establish a foothold, President Donald Trump said.

Trump told Politico he ordered the December 25 strikes as a Christmas present - contradicting a statement by Nigerian officials.

Camps run by IS in Sokoto state were targeted. Despite unclear casualty numbers, both US and Nigerian officials report militants were killed.

Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar stated it was a joint operation with no religious motives involved.

The strikes were planned well in advance with intelligence from Nigeria, and Tuggar hinted at possible future operations.

In contrast to Trump's claims, Tuggar emphasized that the timing of the strikes was coincidental to the holiday.

Local officials in Sokoto have reported significant effects on militant camps, though exact death tolls remain unverified.

The Nigerian government has been battling various jihadist groups, including Boko Haram and IS affiliates, predominantly in the northeastern region. However, a smaller faction known as Lakurawa has been increasingly active in northwestern Sokoto.

The US military has previously accused the Nigerian government of inadequate protection for Christians from jihadist attacks, labeling Nigeria a country of particular concern due to religious freedom violations.

The defensive measures included assistance from Nigerian forces, and no civilian casualties have been reported despite some munitions landing near inhabited areas.

The US strikes were part of a broader reinvigorated military stance against IS, following recent similar actions in Syria.