(DDM) – The Nigerian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has confirmed that the United States carried out military air strikes targeting terrorist elements in parts of north-west Nigeria on Thursday.
The confirmation was contained in an official press release issued by the ministry, which acknowledged the operation as part of an ongoing security partnership between Nigeria and the United States.
According to the statement, the air strikes were conducted following extensive intelligence sharing and coordination between Nigerian security agencies and their American counterparts.
The government described the action as a reflection of structured security cooperation aimed at degrading terrorist networks threatening lives and stability in the region.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the collaboration respects Nigeria’s sovereignty and operates within agreed frameworks of international cooperation.
Officials explained that the strikes targeted terrorist hideouts linked to armed groups responsible for mass killings, kidnappings, and attacks on communities in north-west Nigeria.
The north-west region has in recent years experienced persistent violence from bandit and terrorist groups operating across rural areas and forest corridors.
States such as Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, and parts of Niger have recorded frequent attacks on villages, highways, and security formations.
Thousands of residents have been displaced, while abductions for ransom have become a major source of funding for armed groups.
The Nigerian government said the decision to deepen intelligence collaboration with international partners was driven by the transnational nature of modern terrorism.
According to the ministry, terrorist groups often exploit porous borders, advanced communication tools, and foreign funding networks.
The press release noted that cooperation with the United States includes intelligence analysis, technical support, capacity building, and counter-terrorism coordination.
The government stressed that the air strikes were not unilateral actions but followed established communication channels between both countries.
It added that Nigeria remains in control of its broader security strategy and continues to lead ground operations against terrorist elements.
Foreign Affairs officials said the operation demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to exploring all lawful avenues to restore peace and protect citizens.
The ministry reiterated that national security remains a top priority of the Federal Government.
The confirmation of the US strikes has generated public debate over foreign military involvement in Nigeria’s internal security challenges.
Some security analysts have argued that international support is necessary given the scale and sophistication of terrorist operations.
Others have urged transparency and clear rules of engagement to maintain public trust and constitutional accountability.
The Federal Government said it remains guided by international law and bilateral agreements in all security collaborations.
The United States has long maintained security partnerships with Nigeria, particularly in counter-terrorism efforts against Boko Haram and Islamic State affiliates.
In recent years, cooperation has expanded to address banditry and emerging terror networks in north-west and north-central Nigeria.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured Nigerians that such partnerships are designed to complement, not replace, local security efforts.
It also stressed that civilian protection remains central to all counter-terrorism operations.
The government called on citizens to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
It urged communities in affected areas to remain calm and cooperate with authorities.
The ministry concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability, international cooperation, and the defeat of terrorism in all its forms.
Further details on the operation are expected to be provided by relevant security agencies in due course.
Nigerian Government Confirms US Military Air Strikes On Terrorists In North West
