U.S. Strikes Against ISIS in Nigeria Amid Ongoing Religious Violence

Fri Dec 26 2025 23:50:35 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

On Christmas Day, President Donald Trump announced a significant military strike against Islamic State militants in Nigeria's Sokoto state, highlighting ongoing issues of religious violence targeting Christians and Muslims.

President Trump declared a potent military strike against Islamic State units in Nigeria after criticizing the country's government for failing to manage the violence targeted at Christians. The U.S. actions were made in coordination with Nigerian authorities, while concerns over the increasing threats from the militant Lakurawa group were highlighted. Both local residents and officials acknowledge the widespread violence affects individuals of various faiths, calling for a unified approach to tackle terrorism and community safety.

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — President Donald Trump reported that the United States executed a significant military strike against the Islamic State's forces in Nigeria on Christmas evening. This decision follows weeks of Trump accusing the Nigerian government of failing to control violence aimed at Christians.

In a post on his social media platform, Trump described the strike as 'powerful and deadly,' but did not disclose details regarding the damage caused during the operation in the northwestern state of Sokoto.

A Defense Department official, preferring to remain anonymous, confirmed that the U.S. cooperated with Nigeria to conduct the attacks, which were sanctioned by the Nigerian government.

Nigeria's Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the collaboration, emphasizing a partnership rooted in intelligence sharing and strategic coordination consistent with international law and respect for sovereignty.

Nigeria's Ongoing Battle with Armed Groups

Nigeria is currently combatting multiple armed factions, including those affiliated with the Islamic State. Key among these is the Lakurawa group, which has become increasingly aggressive in recent months. Security analysts indicate that the group has been expanding its influence and posing severe threats to communities in the region.

According to Malik Samuel, a security researcher, the Lakurawa faction has established control over territories in Nigeria, including Sokoto and Kebbi states, fueled by a power vacuum in the area.

Impact of Violence on Nigerian Communities

Trump emphasized that the airstrikes were necessary to combat militants targeting and brutally killing predominantly innocent Christians. However, reports from residents and analysts reveal that the violence impacts both Christians, primarily in southern Nigeria, and Muslims, who are the majority in the north.

The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs remarked that all terrorist violence threatens the country's core values and international peace, noting that various faith communities have fallen victim to extremist activities.

U.S. Policy Shift on Nigeria

Last month, Trump instructed the Pentagon to strategize potential military interventions in Nigeria, specifically in response to what he identified as persecution of Christians. This included visa restrictions for individuals involved in the violence as part of broader U.S. sanctions.

The U.S. also designated Nigeria as a 'country of particular concern' under the International Religious Freedom Act, with Trump asserting that U.S. Defense forces have successfully conducted multiple strikes against ISIS.

Nigeria, home to about 220 million people, has a nearly even distribution of Christians and Muslims, often facing various challenges like the Boko Haram faction, resource-driven conflicts, and communal strife.

Despite dwindling U.S. military presence in Africa, Trump's administration shows intent to address the complex security environment in Nigeria with ongoing military cooperation.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reiterated support for the Nigerian government, stating that U.S. forces are always prepared for action when necessary.