The Nigerian military says the recent airstrikes by the US in the North-West illustrate the Federal Government’s ongoing will to combat terrorism, which were carried out in coordination with the United States.
Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, stated this in a statement made on Friday in Abuja, stating that the action was based on credible intelligence and was targeted at reducing the terrorists’ operational capabilities while minimizing collateral damage.
According to him, the strikes were carried out with the agreement of the competent authorities as part of ongoing efforts to clear the country of terrorists and other criminal elements endangering national security.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in conjunction with the United States of America, has successfully conducted precision strike operations against identified foreign ISIS-linked elements operating in parts of Northwest Nigeria.
“The strikes followed credible intelligence and careful operational planning aimed at degrading the operational capabilities of the terrorists while minimizing collateral damage,” he said.
Uba stated that the operation underscored the resolve of the Federal Government, working with strategic international partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from establishing or expanding footholds within Nigeria.
“This action clearly demonstrates the unwavering resolve of the Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with strategic international partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from gaining any foothold within our borders,” he said.
The defence spokesman underlined the Armed Forces’ commitment to the protection of people and property throughout the country.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains fully committed to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians and will continue to support joint, inter-agency, and international efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across the country,” Uba said.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs earlier on Friday affirmed that Nigeria is still involved in organised security and intelligence collaboration with international partners, including the United States, to combat terrorism and violent extremism.
According to a statement signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the engagement will include intelligence sharing, strategic coordination, and other forms of support in accordance with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and shared security responsibilities.
The ministry emphasized that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the need to protect civilian lives, preserve national unity, and uphold the rights of all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity, and that terrorist violence against any religious or ethnic group is an affront to Nigeria’s values and international peace.
