US Strikes Hit Nigerian Militants in Recent Air Campaign
U.S. warplanes struck positions in Sokoto, northwestern Nigeria, on Thursday, targeting Islamic State affiliates. The operations were coordinated with Nigerian security forces as part of a joint effort.
President Donald Trump announced the strikes on social media, describing them as powerful and deadly against militants attacking civilians, including Christians. Nigerian officials confirmed the attacks were part of an intelligence partnership.
The target groups are linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province and the Islamic State Sahel Province, known locally as Lakurawa, which operates mainly in Sokoto and Kebbi.
Lakurawa has operated since around 2017, initially invited to counter bandit violence but later engaging in violent acts. Analysts note the group gained strength after the 2023 coup in Niger, straining regional security cooperation.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth posted on X that additional strikes may come. Nigerian forces said the operation demonstrates resilience but acknowledged that broader security challenges stem from governance gaps.