A complete of 16 GPS-guided precision munitions have been deployed utilizing MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial platforms in a joint Nigeria–United States operation that focused Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist enclaves in Sokoto State.
That is based on a press release by Nigeria’s Minister of Data and Nationwide Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
The strikes, performed between 00:12 hours and 01:30 hours on Friday, December 26, 2025, neutralised ISIS components making an attempt to infiltrate Nigeria from the Sahel hall.
Based on Idris, the operation was authorised by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and executed underneath established command and management constructions with full involvement of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“The precision strikes hit two main ISIS meeting and staging grounds throughout the Bauni forest axis of Tangaza Native Authorities Space, Sokoto State,” he mentioned.
Idris added that Intelligence confirmed the websites have been being utilized by overseas ISIS fighters in collaboration with native associates to plan large-scale assaults inside Nigeria.
“The strikes have been launched from maritime platforms within the Gulf of Guinea after in depth intelligence gathering, operational planning, and reconnaissance,” the assertion added.
He confirmed that particles from expended munitions fell in Jabo, Tambuwal Native Authorities Space of Sokoto State, and in Offa, Kwara State, close to a resort, including that “No civilian casualties have been recorded, and safety companies promptly secured the affected areas”.
The Federal Authorities reiterated its dedication to defending lives and property, stressing that Nigeria stays firmly in charge of its nationwide safety structure.
“The Federal Authorities of Nigeria reiterates its unwavering resolve to confront, degrade, and get rid of terrorist threats, significantly these posed by transnational extremist networks searching for to undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and safety,” Idris mentioned.
Minister of International Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, had earlier confirmed Nigeria’s approval and intelligence help for the strikes, stressing that the operation didn’t violate the nation’s sovereignty.
“It’s Nigeria that supplied the intelligence,” Tuggar mentioned, including that the strikes have been strictly counter-terrorism operations and never directed at any non secular group.
He revealed that he personally sought and obtained President Tinubu’s approval earlier than the operation was carried out, following consultations with U.S. officers.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed he authorised the strike towards ISIS bases in north-west Nigeria. The U.S. army mentioned camps close to the Niger border have been hit, with preliminary assessments suggesting “a number of fatalities.”
Secretary of Struggle Pete Hegseth praised Nigerian cooperation and warned of additional actions.
In a submit on X, Hegseth wrote: “The President was clear final month: the killing of harmless Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) should finish. The @DeptofWar is all the time prepared, so ISIS discovered tonight — on Christmas.”
He added: “Grateful for Nigerian authorities help & cooperation. Merry Christmas! Extra to come back…”
Nigeria reaffirmed its alignment with strategic companions in coordinated actions geared toward guaranteeing lasting peace, border safety, and regional stability. Residents have been urged to stay calm and vigilant as decisive actions proceed towards terrorist {groups} threatening the nation.