Nigeria TV Info 

US Warns of More Nigeria Strikes as Abuja Talks of ‘Joint Ongoing Operations’

Abuja / Washington, Dec 26, 2025 — The United States has signalled that further military strikes targeting militant groups in northwest Nigeria are likely after carrying out a Christmas Day bombardment against Islamic State–linked elements. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Pentagon remains ready for additional operations as part of an intensified counter-terror campaign.

Recent action saw U.S. forces conduct a precision strike in Sokoto State, with Washington framing the operation as a response to violent attacks on civilian communities. The U.S. military’s Africa Command confirmed it coordinated with Nigerian authorities, underscoring that the strikes were carried out with Abuja’s approval and shared intelligence.

Nigeria’s Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar described the mission as part of “joint ongoing operations” and highlighted that Nigerian intelligence was instrumental in planning the assault. He emphasised that the strikes were not aimed at any particular religion but were meant to dismantle terrorism networks that threaten security across the country.

Coordination and Controversy

The partnership marks a notable shift in Abuja’s security posture after months of diplomatic friction with Washington over the handling of ethno-religious violence in Nigeria. President Bola Tinubu authorised cooperation, and Nigerian forces reportedly assisted with intelligence sharing and strategic planning ahead of the U.S. operation.

While some Nigerians have welcomed the foreign support against armed groups, others worry that deeper U.S. military involvement could raise concerns over national sovereignty and potential civilian harm. Analysts say the long-term effects of foreign strikes on Nigeria’s complex insurgency landscape remain unclear.

Security Situation on the Ground

Nigeria continues to wrestle with a mix of armed threats, from Boko Haram factions in the northeast to IS-linked militants and bandit groups in the northwest. The recent Christmas Day airstrike came amid broader insecurity across several northern states, complicating Abuja’s efforts to protect civilians and stabilize volatile regions.

Officials from both countries indicate that joint counter-terrorism operations are far from over, and further coordinated strikes could follow as part of ongoing efforts to degrade extremist capabilities and strengthen regional security.