Donald Trump Addresses US Military Operation in Nigeria

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that American-led air strikes carried out in Nigeria on Christmas Day were coordinated by Washington in partnership with the Nigerian government and aimed at ISIS militants operating in the country.

Speaking on February 5 at a public address in Washington, Trump said the strikes targeted ISIS fighters in Sokoto and were ordered to weaken the group’s operational capacity. 

He described the operation as deliberate and decisive, stating that the timing was intentional to send a strong message to the militants.

According to Trump, the United States worked directly with Nigeria to execute the strikes, which he said were meant to counter terrorist violence attributed to ISIS in parts of the country. He added that the operation was planned as part of broader counter-terrorism efforts involving both governments.

The development has renewed attention on the growing security cooperation between United States and Nigeria. In recent weeks, reports have circulated about increased US military involvement in the country, including intelligence and technical support.

Addressing those reports, US Africa Command confirmed ongoing engagement with Nigerian authorities. Its commander said discussions were held with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, focusing on collaboration against terrorism and regional instability. 

He noted that a small US team was approved to provide specialised capabilities to support Nigeria’s security operations.

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, later acknowledged the presence of a US team in the country, clarifying that their role was limited and supportive. He stressed that Nigerian forces remain in full control of all operations.

The Defence Headquarters also moved to address sovereignty concerns. According to its Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, all engagements with the United States fall under existing bilateral agreements. 

He said Nigeria’s territorial integrity is protected and that cooperation is centred on intelligence sharing, training, logistics, and strategic dialogue.

Despite these assurances, the joint operation has drawn criticism in the National Assembly. 

Senator Abdul Ningi, representing Bauchi Central Senatorial District, described the strikes as a breach of Nigeria’s sovereignty. The Peoples Democratic Party lawmaker argued that any foreign military action on Nigerian soil should receive legislative approval and involve local security agencies from the outset.

The comments underscore a growing national debate over how Nigeria balances urgent security needs with constitutional oversight as foreign partnerships deepen in the fight against terrorism.