Nigeria Confirms U.S. Intelligence Role As Air Strikes Hit Terrorist Targets In North-West

Abuja, Nigeria — The Federal Government has confirmed that Nigeria is working closely with the United States and other international partners on security cooperation and intelligence sharing that has resulted in recent air strikes on terrorist targets in the North-West.

In a press release issued on Friday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government acknowledged that “structured security cooperation” with allies, including the United States, has led to precision hits on terrorist enclaves as part of ongoing counter-terrorism operations.

According to the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the collaboration is anchored on intelligence exchange, strategic coordination and other forms of support carried out within the framework of international law and bilateral understandings, while maintaining what it described as “mutual respect for sovereignty.”

The statement read, “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. This has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by air strikes in the North West.

“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.

“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. 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 Federal Government continues to work closely with its partners through established diplomatic and security channels to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their financing and logistics, and prevent cross-border threats, while strengthening Nigeria’s own security institutions and intelligence capabilities.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to engage relevant partners and keep the public informed through appropriate official channels,” Ebienfa added.