The Federal Government has confirmed that Nigeria is working in close partnership with the United States and other international allies following recent airstrikes on terrorist targets in the North West.
In a statement released Friday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government disclosed that the strikes were the result of sustained intelligence collaboration and strategic coordination with partner nations aimed at combating terrorism and violent extremism.
According to the Ministry, the cooperation has already produced precision airstrikes against terrorist sites in the region, in line with global counter-terrorism practices.
The statement reads in part, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria confirms that Nigerian authorities remain engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States of America, in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism.
“In line with established international practice and bilateral understandings, this cooperation includes the exchange of intelligence, strategic coordination, and other forms of support consistent with international law, mutual respect for sovereignty, and shared commitments to regional and global security,” the Ministry stated.
The Federal Government stressed that the protection of civilians remains at the heart of all counter-terrorism efforts.
“Nigeria reiterates that all counter terrorism efforts are guided by the primacy of protecting civilian lives, safeguarding national unity, and upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens, irrespective of faith or ethnicity,” the statement said.
It further condemned attacks on any group, insisting that terrorism in all its forms is unacceptable.
“Terrorist violence in any form whether directed at Christians, Muslims, or other communities remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security,” the Ministry added.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Nigeria will continue to work with its partners to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their funding and logistics, prevent cross-border threats, and strengthen national security and intelligence capabilities.
It assured Nigerians that engagement with relevant partners would continue and that updates would be provided through official channels.
The confirmation follows reports that the United States plans to provide additional support to northern states to boost surveillance, security operations and counter-terrorism efforts after the recent military action.
The development comes after President Donald Trump, on Christmas night, ordered United States airstrikes against ISIS militants operating in North West Nigeria, accusing the group of carrying out deadly attacks against Christians.
