The United States military conducted precision airstrikes on December 25-26, 2025, targeting two ISIS-linked camps in the Bauni forest area of Sokoto State, northwest Nigeria. The operation, conducted at Nigeria’s request, aimed to neutralize foreign fighters infiltrating from the Sahel region who were planning attacks on local communities, particularly Christians.
President Donald Trump announced the strikes on Truth Social, calling them a “Christmas present” to eliminate terrorists responsible for escalating violence. US Africa Command confirmed the use of MQ-9 Reaper drones launching 16 munitions between 00:12 and 01:30 WAT from naval platforms in the Gulf of Guinea. Nigerian Information Minister Mohammed Idris Malagi verified the success, noting no civilian casualties despite minor debris fallout in nearby Kwara State areas.
The targeted camps served as staging grounds for ISIS Sahel Province militants moving southward, distinct from the northeastern ISWAP group. Sokoto authorities reported multiple militant fatalities and urged residents to remain calm, emphasizing the strikes’ role in protecting lives amid rising insecurity.
This rare direct US intervention highlights deepening Nigeria-US security cooperation against spreading Islamist threats. Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar praised the precision operation, while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth extended Christmas greetings to Nigerian partners. Analysts predict potential follow-up actions as Sahel-based groups expand operations.
Local reactions in Lagos and Sokoto mixed relief with cautious optimism, viewing the strikes as a boost to Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts. The operation underscores global concerns over jihadist expansion in West Africa.
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