Eshioromeh Sebastian in Abuja
The Defence Headquarters has stated that the recent joint airstrikes conducted with the United States in Nigeria’s North West region demonstrate an unwavering resolve by the Federal Government and its international partners to confront transnational terrorism.
The Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, disclosed this in a statement on Friday in Abuja, confirming the precision military operation.
“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 North West Nigeria,” Uba said.
He explained that the action was taken with the approval of appropriate authorities and followed credible intelligence, forming part of sustained efforts to rid the country of terrorists and other criminal elements threatening national security.
“The strikes followed credible intelligence and careful operational planning aimed at degrading the operational capabilities of the terrorists while minimising collateral damage,” he added.
The defence spokesman emphasised the strategic significance of the collaboration. “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.”
Reaffirming the military’s commitment, Uba said, “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.”
The statement from the DHQ aligns with an earlier confirmation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which detailed Nigeria’s structured security cooperation with international partners.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, stated that the collaboration involves “intelligence sharing, strategic coordination and other forms of support in line with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty and shared security commitments.”
The Foreign Affairs Ministry stressed that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts are “guided by the need to protect civilian lives, safeguard national unity and uphold the rights of all citizens, irrespective of faith or ethnicity,” adding that terrorist violence “remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and international peace.”
The airstrikes, which occurred on Christmas Day, followed acknowledgments from United States officials, including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, who expressed gratitude for the Nigerian government’s support and cooperation during the operation.
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