Nigeria Says U.S. Airstrikes on Terrorists Under Bilateral Security Cooperation

Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that recent United States airstrikes on Islamic State (ISIS) targets in northwest Nigeria were carried out at the request of the Nigerian government, stressing that the operation followed established counterterrorism cooperation between both countries.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Ministry said the airstrikes were conducted after formal engagements and with the full knowledge, approval, and coordination of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

“The Government of Nigeria wishes to clarify that the airstrikes conducted by the United States against Islamic State elements in parts of northwest Nigeria were carried out at the request of Nigerian authorities and in line with existing bilateral security cooperation frameworks,” the statement read.

The Ministry emphasised that Nigeria remains fully in charge of all counterterrorism operations within its territory, noting that international partners only provide support where such assistance aligns strictly with Nigeria’s national security objectives.

According to the statement, the airstrikes are part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to degrade terrorist capabilities, disrupt logistics and supply networks, and protect civilian populations from violent extremist threats.

The Foreign Ministry further reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to sustained collaboration with trusted international partners to confront terrorism, banditry, and transnational criminal networks that pose threats to national and regional stability.

Addressing concerns over sovereignty, the Ministry dismissed suggestions of external interference, stating clearly that Nigeria’s sovereignty was never compromised.

“At no time was Nigeria’s sovereignty compromised. All actions were conducted with due respect for Nigeria’s laws, institutions, and command structures,” the Ministry said.

It also cautioned against characterization the country’s security challenges, stressing that extremist violence has affected communities across religious and ethnic lines and should not be framed in sectarian terms.

The statement added that Nigeria remains committed to a multi-layered security response that combines military operations, intelligence sharing, and strategic partnerships to restore peace and stability across affected regions.