Washington: Nigeria confirmed early Friday that it continues to collaborate with the US in the field of security to address the ongoing threat of terrorism and violent extremism. The statement issued by the Foreign Ministry came after US strikes against ISIS (Daesh) targets in northwest Nigeria.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria confirmed that Nigerian authorities remain engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America, in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism. This has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by airstrikes in the North West.
The ministry emphasized that this cooperation includes the exchange of intelligence, strategic coordination, and other forms of support consistent with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and shared commitments to regional and global security. The statement reaffirmed that Nigeria's counterterrorism actions prioritize the protection of civilians, the preservation of national unity, and the respect for the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity.
The statement highlighted that terrorism in any form directed against any community is an affront to Nigeria's values and undermines international peace and security. It further explained that the Federal Government continues to work closely with its partners through established diplomatic and security channels to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their financing and logistics, and prevent cross-border threats, while strengthening Nigeria's own security institutions and intelligence capabilities.
The ministry assured that it will continue to engage in contact with relevant partners and keep the public informed through appropriate official channels. The statement followed an announcement by US President Donald Trump on his Truth Social platform regarding the United States conducting "powerful and deadly" strikes against ISIS targets in northwest Nigeria.
President Trump stated, "Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS Terrorist Scum in Northwest Nigeria, who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even Centuries!" He added that he had previously warned these terrorists of severe consequences if they continued their actions.
US Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed in a post on the US social media company X's platform that it launched the strikes "at the request of Nigerian authorities" in Sokoto State, "killing multiple ISIS terrorists." It emphasized that lethal strikes against ISIS demonstrate the strength of the US military and the commitment to eliminating terrorist threats against Americans at home and abroad.