The Nigerian government has disclosed details of a joint operation with the United States that successfully targeted Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist enclaves in Sokoto State. The precision strike, authorized by President Bola Tinubu, took place on 26 December between 12:12 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. It involved the deployment of 16 GPS‑guided munitions launched from MQ‑9 Reaper unmanned aerial platforms (drones). Coordinated closely with the United States, the operation aimed to neutralize ISIS elements attempting to enter Nigeria via the Sahel corridor.
The strikes hit two major ISIS camps within the Bauni forest axis of Tangaza Local Government Area. Debris from the expended munitions fell in Jabo, Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, and in Offa, Kwara State, near a hotel premises. No civilian casualties were recorded, and security agencies promptly secured the affected areas.
Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris confirmed that the operation was executed under established command and control structures, with full involvement of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and supervision by the Ministers of Defence and Foreign Affairs, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff. Extensive intelligence gathering, planning, and reconnaissance preceded the launch, which was carried out from maritime platforms based in the Gulf of Guinea.
The Sokoto State government welcomed the joint military action, emphasizing that no civilian deaths or injuries occurred in Jabo District. It urged residents to remain calm, rely on verified information from security agencies, and noted its ongoing support for security forces through operational assistance and equipment to enhance surveillance, response capacity, and community safety across the state.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to national security, stating that it remains resolute in confronting, degrading, and eliminating terrorist threats, particularly those posed by transnational extremist networks seeking to undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty. Authorities assured Nigerians that they remain firmly in control of the country’s security architecture, are fully committed to protecting lives and property, and urged citizens to stay calm and vigilant as operations against terrorist groups continue.
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