The Nigerian Government Confirms It Supplied Intelligence for US-Led Airstrikes as US Official Warns of Additional Attacks

Nigeria's foreign ministry has confirmed that it played a role in the American military operation conducted on Christmas Day, according to the nation's foreign minister this week.

Former President Donald Trump had announced the strikes against ISIS militants in north-west Nigeria after a period of criticizing the group for targeting Christian communities.

Extensive Consultations Preceded the Military Action

Nigeria's foreign minister, Yusuf Tuggar, indicated that he had held "lengthy" discussions with America's top diplomat Marco Rubio immediately prior to and following the attack.

He further added that Nigeria's leader, Bola Tinubu, had granted authorization for the airstrikes. Tuggar left the door open for additional operations, describing them as an "ongoing process" that would potentially include international partners.

"This operation had no connection to a particular religion," Tuggar insisted in an interview with the BBC. "The objective is to do with attacking terrorists who have been killing Nigerians."

US Warns of More Actions in Nigeria

Hours after the initial strikes, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth warned of more strikes against Islamic State targets in north-western Nigeria.

Hegseth characterized the action as part of a mission to stop the targeting of Christian individuals, a stance echoed by the ex-commander in chief. In a social media post, Hegseth stated, "He was clear... the murder of Christian civilians in Nigeria must end. More to come..."

Political Reaction to the Military Action

The holiday military operation were hailed by some supporters of the ex-leader, who had been calling for a forceful response to the violence against Christians.

"There is no a better way to celebrate Christmas than by responding to the killings of Christians," commented one well-known activist on a digital platform.

Key Points from the Revelations

• Cooperation: Nigeria supplied crucial information for the American airstrikes.
• High-Level Approval: President Bola Tinubu personally authorized the military action.
• Ongoing Process: The campaign is described as an "continuing mission" with potential for future actions.
• Non-Religious Aim: Nigerian officials maintain the targeting are focused on counter-terrorism, not religion.
• American Stance: A top American official has signaled additional strikes are on the horizon.

This development underscores the evolving security cooperation between Nigeria and the US in addressing terrorist threats in the region.