The United States carried out precision airstrikes against Islamic State militants in northwest Nigeria, targeting their strongholds and operational bases. The strikes were part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts in the Sahel and West Africa region, aimed at degrading the capabilities of extremist groups that have been responsible for attacks on civilians and security forces.
According to Nigerian and US officials, the operation focused on known locations of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a faction that has carried out numerous deadly attacks in Borno, Yobe, and other northern states. The strikes reportedly eliminated several high-value militants and destroyed weapons caches and logistical infrastructure used to plan and execute attacks.
Local sources reported explosions and aerial activity in remote areas where militants were believed to be hiding. While ground verification is ongoing, authorities indicated that the airstrikes were based on intelligence gathered through surveillance and coordination with Nigerian security forces. No civilian casualties have been reported so far.
US military officials emphasised that the strikes are part of a broader strategy to support regional partners in countering terrorism while minimizing risks to civilians. They noted that ISWAP continues to pose a threat not only to Nigeria but also to neighbouring countries in the Lake Chad Basin region, making international cooperation crucial.
The Nigerian government welcomed the airstrikes and reiterated its commitment to working with international allies to combat terrorism. Security analysts said the operation demonstrates enhanced coordination between US forces and Nigeria’s military, leveraging intelligence and precision strikes to target militant leadership and disrupt operations.
Despite repeated military actions, experts caution that militant groups in northwest Nigeria remain adaptive and resilient. Sustained operations, intelligence gathering, and local support are considered essential to prevent the resurgence of extremist networks in the region.
