NAIROBI, Kenya- Nigeria’s government has confirmed ongoing security and intelligence cooperation with the United States following air strikes that targeted terrorist positions in the country’s North West region.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja said Nigerian authorities remain engaged in “structured security cooperation” with international partners, including the United States, as part of efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremism.
The ministry said the collaboration — which involves intelligence sharing, strategic coordination and other forms of support — has contributed to “precision hits on terrorist targets” in parts of north-western Nigeria, an area that has seen increased activity by armed extremist groups.
Respect for sovereignty
The government stressed that the cooperation operates within established bilateral frameworks and international law, and does not undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“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 said.
Although the Foreign Affairs ministry did not explicitly confirm direct U.S. military strikes, the statement followed reports of an operation targeting ISIS-linked elements operating in Nigeria.
NIGERIA-UNITED STATES SECURITY COOPERATION AND INTELLIGENCE COLLABORATION HITS AT TERRORIST TARGETS IN NIGERIAThe Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria confirms that Nigerian authorities remain engaged in structured security cooperation with
Civilian protection priority
Abuja reiterated that all counter-terrorism operations prioritise the protection of civilians and national cohesion, amid concerns over civilian harm in conflict-affected regions.
The government said terrorist violence — regardless of whether it targets Christians, Muslims or other communities — remains “an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security”.
WATCH: Footage shows the U.S. conducting airstrikes in northwest Nigeria on Christmas night, targeting ISIS militants accused of killing Christians. The operation was described as decisive, with a warning that further strikes would follow if the violence continues.
Strengthening local capacity
The ministry added that Nigeria is working with partners to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt financing and logistics, and prevent cross-border threats, while also strengthening domestic intelligence and security institutions.
“The Federal Government continues to work closely with its partners through established diplomatic and security channels,” the statement said, adding that the public would be kept informed through official communication.
Nigeria has faced a complex security challenge involving jihadist groups, armed bandits and criminal networks, particularly in the North East and North West regions.
“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…” – President Donald J. Trump
