The United States military carried out airstrikes in Nigeria on Christmas, reportedly targeting ISIS militants. President Donald Trump said the U.S. struck terrorists “who have been targeting and viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even Centuries.” The strikes marked the first time U.S. missiles have been fired into Nigeria.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs acknowledged the attacks and reaffirmed the Nigerian-American security partnership, but did not indicate the country requested the strikes. The ministry condemned “terrorist violence in any form whether directed at Christians, Muslims, or other communities,” contrasting with U.S. emphasis on Christian victims.
Critics questioned the timing and impact of the strikes, noting no recent attacks on U.S. interests in Nigeria. Nigerian politician Shehu Sani said, “The narrative that the evil terrorists only target one faith remains absolutely false and misleading,” amid continued violence affecting both Christian and Muslim communities.