The United States has carried out a targeted airstrike against fighters of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Sokoto State, North-West Nigeria, marking a rare but significant foreign military action on Nigerian soil in the ongoing war against terrorism.
US President Donald Trump confirmed the operation in a post on Truth Social in the early hours of Friday, describing the strike as “powerful and deadly” and warning that the United States would continue to confront terrorist groups wherever they pose a threat.
The US Africa Command (AFRICOM) later clarified that the strike was executed at the request of Nigerian authorities, underscoring growing military cooperation between Abuja and Washington in the fight against insurgency and transnational terror networks.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), AFRICOM said the operation demonstrated America’s resolve to dismantle ISIS cells operating in the region.
“Lethal strikes against ISIS demonstrate the strength of our military and our commitment to eliminating terrorist threats against Americans at home and abroad,” the command said.
Although details of casualties and the exact location of the strike were not immediately disclosed, security sources said the operation targeted suspected ISIS hideouts believed to be linked to recent attacks and logistics movements in parts of north-western Nigeria.
Nigeria has in recent years battled multiple terror groups, including Boko Haram, ISWAP and armed bandit networks, whose activities have expanded beyond the North-East into the North-West and North-Central regions.
The development comes amid renewed concerns over the presence of ISIS-linked fighters outside the Lake Chad axis, raising fresh questions about the evolving nature of insecurity in the country.
As of the time of filing this report, Nigerian military authorities had yet to issue an official statement on the strike.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
