FG Confirms US Airstrikes on Terrorists, Cites Intelligence Cooperation

The Federal Government has confirmed that it is working closely with the United States on security and intelligence operations following recent airstrikes that struck terrorist targets in Nigeria’s North West, as authorities intensify efforts to combat terrorism, violent extremism and cross-border criminal activities threatening national security.

The confirmation was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which noted that the collaboration between both countries has resulted in precision airstrikes against terrorist elements operating in the affected areas.

According to the statement signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria remains engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America, to address terrorism and violent extremism nationwide.

The ministry said the partnership involves intelligence sharing, strategic coordination and other forms of support conducted in line with international law, respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and shared security commitments between both countries.

It stressed that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the need to protect civilian lives, safeguard national unity and uphold the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of faith or ethnicity.

“Nigeria reiterates that all counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the primacy of protecting civilian lives, safeguarding national unity, and upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens, irrespective of faith or ethnicity,” the statement said.

“Terrorist violence, whether directed at Christians, Muslims, or other communities, remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security,” it added.

The statement followed comments by United States President Donald Trump, who disclosed that US forces carried out strikes on Islamic State targets in Northwestern Nigeria, while the Federal Government assured that it would continue to engage partners through diplomatic and security channels to weaken terrorist networks and keep the public informed through official updates.