The United States carried out airstrikes targeting suspected members of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Sokoto State, Nigeria, on Thursday. The operation, conducted by the US Africa Command (AFRICOM), aimed at dismantling militant camps in the region, although specific details about the airstrikes remain undisclosed due to operational security concerns.
According to President Donald Trump, who addressed the strikes on his social media platform, the action was taken to combat what he termed “ISIS Terrorist Scum” responsible for the killing of innocent civilians, predominantly Christians. He stated, “Tonight, at my direction as Commander in Chief, the United States launched a powerful and deadly strike against ISIS terrorists in Northwest Nigeria.”
Residents in Jabo Town expressed surprise at the strikes, noting a lack of prior military action in the area for nearly two years. Witnesses reported that the airstrikes specifically targeted the Warriya and Alkassim villages, both known to host militant camps.
Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar confirmed the strikes as a “joint operation,” emphasizing that the military actions were not motivated by religious considerations. He indicated that preparations for the strikes had been ongoing for some time and hinted at the possibility of further military actions in the future.
The authority for the airstrikes is rooted in the War Powers Resolution, which grants the US President the ability to order military operations. However, significant military engagements typically require congressional approval. The Congressional Research Service notes that several presidents have initiated military actions without seeking such authorization since the resolution’s enactment in 1973.
The airstrikes also raise questions regarding adherence to international law. Under Customary International Humanitarian Law (CIHL), military actions must target legitimate military objectives. Furthermore, military intervention is justified under the inherent right of self-defense, as recognized by Article 51 of the United Nations Charter. This article stipulates that military actions should be reported promptly to the Security Council, particularly if they are in response to an armed attack.
The recent strikes follow a series of actions taken by the Trump administration toward Nigeria. In November, President Trump directed the Pentagon to prepare plans for military action, labeling Nigeria a “country of particular concern” due to reports of persecution against Christians. Nigeria has seen numerous incidents of violence, including mass abductions affecting both Muslim and Christian communities.
Notably, in November 2025, a wave of attacks resulted in the abduction of over 300 pupils and 12 students, with many incidents occurring outside Sokoto State. The ongoing violence underscores the complex security landscape in Nigeria, where communities continue to grapple with the threat posed by various militant groups.
The implications of these airstrikes extend beyond immediate military objectives, touching upon broader issues of governance, international relations, and humanitarian concerns in Nigeria. As the situation develops, it is likely to attract further scrutiny from both domestic and international observers.
