U.S. War Secretary Thanks Nigeria for Cooperation in Christmas Anti-Terror Strikes

Eshioromeh Sebastian in Abuja

In the wake of coordinated military operations in Nigeria’s North-West region, the United States Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, has formally expressed gratitude to the Federal Government of Nigeria for its support and cooperation.

The acknowledgment follows confirmed airstrikes carried out on Christmas Day against terrorist targets linked to the Islamic State (ISIS).

The action comes weeks after U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing violence against religious communities.

“The President was clear last month: the killing of innocent Christians in Nigeria (and elsewhere) must end,” Secretary Hegseth stated. “The @DeptofWar is always ready, so ISIS found out tonight — on Christmas. More to come… Grateful for Nigerian government support & cooperation.”

The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement issued on Friday by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, confirmed the security collaboration. It clarified that the operations were part of ongoing structured cooperation with international partners, including the United States, to address terrorism and violent extremism.

“In line with established international practice and bilateral understandings, 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 read.

The Ministry emphasised that all counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the primacy of protecting civilian lives and safeguarding national unity. “Terrorist violence in any form whether directed at Christians, Muslims, or other communities remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security,” it added.

The development signals a tangible shift from diplomatic designation to active, joint military engagement between the two nations.

The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to continuing work through established channels to weaken terrorist networks and strengthen Nigeria’s own security institutions.