The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that comprehensive battle damage assessment is still in progress following a series of joint airstrikes carried out by the United States military in coordination with Nigerian forces against extremist targets in northwest Nigeria.
The clarification was issued amid widespread public debate over the effectiveness and impact of the strikes, which were announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on Christmas Day, and described as precision attacks on Islamic State‑linked militant camps in Sokoto State.
Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, reiterated that the assessment process which evaluates the physical and operational effects of the strikes is ongoing. He assured that once complete, the findings will be communicated to the public.
“The strike was executed in conjunction with Nigerian intelligence and forces, and we will provide full details after the assessment,” Onoja said in Abuja. He stressed that the operation targeted locations where credible intelligence confirmed the presence of extremist elements.
The joint strikes confirmed by both the Nigerian government and the U.S. military are part of escalating counterterrorism cooperation between the two countries aimed at dismantling militant networks operating near the Sahel region. According to reports, U.S. forces employed precision‑guided missiles and drone support, focusing on camps linked to Islamic State affiliates.
While the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that the action was conducted with full Nigerian consent and intelligence support, public reaction has been mixed. Some Nigerians have questioned the targeting choices, while officials maintain the operation aligns with efforts to safeguard national security.
As the damage assessment continues, defence authorities say they remain committed to transparency and will update the nation once the review is complete.
