The Sokoto State Government has confirmed that a joint air operation carried out by the Nigerian military in collaboration with the United States struck terrorist enclaves in Tangaza Local Government Area, with authorities insisting that no civilians were harmed.
The confirmation was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Director-General of Media and Publicity, Government House, Sokoto, Abubakar Bawa.
According to the statement, the airstrikes, conducted on Wednesday, were part of intensified efforts to weaken terrorist and bandit networks operating within Sokoto State and along Nigeria’s North-Western borders.
“The joint operation targeted identified terrorist hideouts in Tangaza Local Government Area as part of ongoing security efforts to degrade criminal networks threatening peace in the state,” Bawa said.
He noted that the full impact of the operation was yet to be ascertained, as assessment reports from joint security operations were still being awaited.
“The impact of the airstrike could not be immediately determined, as detailed reports from the Joint Operations are still being awaited,” the statement added.
The state government also addressed concerns raised by residents over the discovery of suspicious objects near Jabo town in Tambuwal Local Government Area, explaining that investigations were ongoing.
“The circumstances surrounding the objects found near Jabo town cannot yet be fully explained, as analysis by Nigeria–US military authorities is still ongoing,” Bawa stated.
He, however, reassured residents that no civilian casualties were recorded in both Tangaza and Jabo communities.
Reaffirming Sokoto State’s stance on international security cooperation, the government welcomed the partnership between Nigeria and the United States, describing it as crucial to addressing terrorism and cross-border criminal activities.
“Sokoto State welcomes any collaboration between Nigeria and relevant global stakeholders aimed at curbing terrorism and cross-border crimes in the state,” the statement said.
The government added that security operations across the state remained focused on protecting lives and property, stressing its continued support for security agencies.
“Over the past two years, the Sokoto State Government has consistently supported security agencies by providing operational assistance and equipment to strengthen the state’s security architecture,” Bawa said.
The government also appealed to residents of affected communities to remain calm and continue cooperating with security agencies by sharing credible intelligence.
“We urge citizens to support both federal and state authorities in their collective efforts to restore lasting peace and security, while also offering prayers for the success of our security forces,” the statement concluded.
The airstrike comes amid sustained military operations across Nigeria’s North-West region, where security forces are targeting armed groups linked to terrorism, banditry and trans-border crimes.
