US Launches Airstrikes on IS-Linked Militants in Northern Nigeria

The United States has launched airstrikes against militants linked to the Islamic State in Sokoto State, marking a significant escalation in efforts to curb the group’s growing presence in north-western Nigeria.

According to the U.S. military, the strikes hit militant camps near Nigeria’s border with Niger late on Thursday. While exact casualty figures remain unclear, both U.S. and Nigerian officials confirmed that militants were killed. An initial U.S. assessment suggested “multiple” fatalities.

U.S. President Donald Trump said the Christmas Day strikes had been “deadly,” accusing the group of targeting civilians, particularly Christians. However, Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar told the BBC the operation was a joint mission and stressed that it had “nothing to do with a particular religion.” He said the strikes were planned well in advance using Nigerian intelligence and did not rule out further action.

Local official Isa Salihu Bashir, from the Tangaza area of Sokoto State, told the BBC the strikes hit camps run by the Lakurawa group, an IS-linked faction that has recently attempted to establish a foothold in the region. He said many fighters were killed, though the exact number remains unconfirmed, and added that militants were seen fleeing toward Niger following the strikes.

Nigeria has long battled jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and IS-affiliated factions, primarily in the northeast. However, authorities say Lakurawa has expanded operations in the northwest, recruiting local youths, settling in border communities, and enforcing harsh controls. Residents of Tangaza, largely moderate practising Muslims, have increasingly voiced concern over the group’s activities.

The Nigerian government says operations against extremist groups will continue as part of broader efforts to secure border regions and prevent militant expansion.