The United States has carried out airstrikes against Islamic State (ISIS) fighters in northwestern Nigeria, following a formal request from Nigerian authorities, according to statements from U.S. and military officials.
U.S. forces conducted a targeted aerial operation against ISIS-linked militants operating in northwestern Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of what officials described as a “significant number” of fighters.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed that the operation was approved at the highest level, underscoring Washington’s commitment to counterterrorism efforts on the African continent.
The operation was executed by the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), which oversees U.S. military activities across Africa.
The airstrikes reportedly hit militant positions in Sobota town, Sokoto State, a region that has experienced rising militant activity and insecurity in recent years.
According to U.S. officials, the strikes were carried out at the request of the Nigerian government, amid escalating pressure from ISIS-affiliated groups accused of targeting civilian populations, particularly Christian communities, and destabilizing local governance structures.
U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth praised Nigeria’s cooperation, stating:
“I deeply appreciate the support and coordination of the Nigerian government in confronting terrorist threats that endanger regional and international security.”
The airstrikes follow a broader directive from the U.S. President ordering intensified military action against ISIS cells operating in Nigeria. The move reflects growing concern in Washington over the expansion of extremist networks in West Africa and their potential spillover effects across the Sahel region.
Nigeria has long battled multiple insurgent groups, including ISIS-West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram, with intermittent international military support.
The U.S. airstrikes in Sokoto signal a renewed phase of American-Nigerian security cooperation and highlight Washington’s readiness to intervene militarily when requested by regional partners. While the operation delivers a tactical blow to ISIS fighters, analysts caution that sustained political stability, local governance, and regional coordination will be critical to preventing militant resurgence in Nigeria’s fragile northwest.