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

The Nigerian foreign ministry has confirmed that it provided crucial intelligence in the American military operation carried out on Christmas Day, as stated by the country's foreign minister on Friday.

Former President Donald Trump had announced the strikes targeting ISIS fighters in the northwestern region of Nigeria after a period of criticizing the organization for targeting Christian communities.

Extensive Consultations Came Before the Operation

Nigeria's foreign minister, Yusuf Tuggar, indicated that he had engaged in "extensive" discussions with America's top diplomat Marco Rubio immediately before and after the airstrike.

He also noted that Nigeria's president, Bola Tinubu, had approved for the military action. Tuggar did not rule out additional operations, characterizing them as an "continuous effort" that would also involve international partners.

"The strikes had nothing to do with a particular religion," Tuggar emphasized in an interview with the BBC. "It is to do with targeting militants who have been murdering Nigerian citizens."

US Warns of Further Strikes in Nigeria

Hours after the initial strikes, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth warned of more strikes against Islamic State targets in the region.

Hegseth characterized the action as part of efforts to halt the targeting of Christian individuals, a position reiterated by the ex-commander in chief. In a public statement, Hegseth stated, "The president was explicit... the murder of Christian civilians in Nigeria must end. More to come..."

Supporters' Response to the Military Action

The holiday military operation were hailed by certain political allies of the ex-leader, who had been agitating for a strong military reaction to the attacks against Christians.

"I can’t think of a better way to observe the holiday than by avenging the death of Christians," posted one prominent political figure on a digital platform.

Main Takeaways from the Announcement

• Intelligence Sharing: Nigeria actively provided crucial information for the American airstrikes.
• High-Level Approval: President Bola Tinubu personally authorized the strikes.
• Continuous Effort: The operation is viewed as an "continuing mission" with potential for future actions.
• Non-Religious Aim: Nigerian officials strongly insist the strikes are solely about combating militants, not religious affiliation.
• American Stance: A senior US official has signaled additional strikes are likely.

This development highlights the evolving security cooperation between Nigeria and the US in addressing terrorist threats in the Sahel area.