The Federal Government on Friday confirmed that Nigeria is working closely with international partners, including the United States, on security cooperation aimed at tackling terrorism and violent extremism, following recent air strikes on terrorist targets in the North West.
In a press release issued Friday morning by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said the air strikes were carried out through ongoing intelligence sharing and strategic coordination with its partners.
According to the Ministry, the cooperation has resulted in precision air strikes on terrorist targets in the North West. It said the engagement follows established international practice and bilateral understandings, including intelligence exchange and strategic coordination, while respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and international law.
It reads in part, “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.
“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,” the Ministry stated.
The government said the protection of civilians remains a key focus of its counter-terrorism operations.
“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,” the statement said.
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It added that violence by terrorist groups against any community is unacceptable.
“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 Ministry said.
The Ministry further noted that Nigeria continues to work with its partners to weaken terrorist networks, disrupt their funding and logistics, prevent cross-border threats, and strengthen national security and intelligence capacity.
It added that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue engaging relevant partners and keep the public informed through official channels.
The confirmation comes amid reports that the United States plans to provide additional support to northern states to boost surveillance, security operations, and counter-terrorism efforts following the recent military action.
On Christmas night, President Donald Trump ordered United States airstrikes against ISIS militants operating in North West Nigeria, accusing the group of carrying out deadly attacks against Christians.