WorldFri, Dec 26, 2025
US Escalates Nigeria Offensive with Airstrikes Against Islamic State Militants
US airstrikes targeted Islamic State militants in northwestern Nigeria, marking an escalation in the fight against groups like Lakurawa, which Nigeria's military has struggled to contain.
📌Key Points
- •The U.S. launched airstrikes against Islamic State militants in northwestern Nigeria on Thursday, marking a major escalation.
- •President Donald Trump announced the strikes, stating they targeted militants "viciously killing, primarily, innocent Christians."
- •Nigerian officials and security analysts clarify that the country's security crisis affects both Christians and Muslims.
- •The likely target was the Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP), known locally as Lakurawa, active in border states like Sokoto and Kebbi.
- •Nigeria views the strikes as part of ongoing intelligence exchange and strategic coordination with the U.S., aiding its overstretched military.
- •Lakurawa's increased activity is linked to its roots in Niger and the impact of the 2023 Niger military coup on cross-border operations.