The Federal Government on Friday reaffirmed that Nigeria is actively engaged in structured security cooperation with international partners, including the United States, to combat terrorism and violent extremism.
This follows a series of airstrikes targeting terrorist strongholds in the North West.
In a press statement released Friday morning, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that these strikes were the result of sustained intelligence sharing and strategic coordination with international partners.
According to the Ministry, the collaboration has enabled precise targeting of terrorist positions in Nigeria through air operations in the North West.
The Ministry noted that this cooperation aligns with international norms and bilateral agreements, encompassing intelligence exchange and strategic planning, while respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and international law.
It stated, “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 government emphasized that the protection of civilians remains central to all counter-terrorism operations.
“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 added that acts of terror against any community are 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 stated.
The Ministry further highlighted Nigeria’s continued collaboration with partners to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt funding and logistics, prevent cross-border threats, and enhance national security and intelligence capacity.
It affirmed that updates on these efforts would be communicated through official channels.
The announcement comes as the United States confirmed plans to provide additional support to northern states, including enhanced surveillance and assistance for counter-terrorism operations following the recent airstrikes.
This follows U.S. airstrikes on Christmas night ordered by President Donald Trump against ISIS militants in North West Nigeria, who were accused of carrying out deadly attacks targeting Christians.
