Breaking News: U.S. Government Launches Military Support Operations in Nigeria Amid Rising Security Threats

December 30, 2025 – In a major development affecting West African security, the United States government has escalated military cooperation with Nigeria, deploying advanced support assets and conducting joint operations against extremist groups. U.S.-backed airstrikes targeted Islamic State-linked militant camps in Sokoto State on Christmas Day, in a rare instance of coordinated strikes on Nigerian soil. The operation used precision-guided munitions launched from unmanned aircraft systems, in close coordination with the Nigerian Armed Forces, and was approved by both governments. �
Reuters +1
The strikes focused on dismantling terrorist infrastructure in northwest Nigeria, where extremist violence has surged in recent months. Nigerian officials confirmed no civilian casualties, and Sokoto authorities urged calm, framing the action as a strategic blow against transnational terror networks. �
Ministry of Information
Following the strikes, U.S. intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) flights have resumed over northeastern Nigeria, reflecting deepening military collaboration aimed at countering Islamist insurgents. �
Prime Africa Channel
While some international observers and civil society groups have welcomed the enhanced cooperation as a necessary step to stabilize Nigeria, critics have raised concerns about sovereignty and constitutional roles, questioning the extent of foreign involvement in internal security affairs. �
TheCable
U.S. authorities stress that these operations are conducted with full Nigerian consent and focus strictly on terrorism threats, marking a significant shift in Washington’s engagement in Africa’s fight against violent extremism.