By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Correspondent
JOINNT PRECISION strike operations have been carried out against identified foreign ISIS linked elements operating in parts of North-West Nigeria, with the Defence Headquarters confirming coordinated action by Nigerian forces and the United States (US).
The Defence Headquarters said the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) conducted the strikes in collaboration with the United States of America (USA) as part of sustained efforts to eliminate terrorist and criminal threats to national security.
Confirmation of the operation followed remarks made in the early hours of Friday by US President Donald Trump, who said his country launched a series of air strikes on ISIS terrorists in Sokoto.
The Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, confirmed the joint Nigerian US operations in a statement issued on Friday, saying the strikes were carried out with the approval of appropriate authorities.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in conjunction with the United States of America, has successfully conducted precision strike operations against identified foreign ISIS linked elements operating in parts of North-West Nigeria,” Uba said.
He said the operation was based on credible intelligence and careful operational planning designed to weaken the capabilities of the targeted elements.
“The strikes followed credible intelligence and careful operational planning aimed at degrading the operational capabilities of the terrorists while minimising collateral damage,” the statement said.
Uba said the operation relied on actionable intelligence and was deliberately executed to ensure precision in targeting.
“It was deliberately calibrated to neutralise the targeted elements while minimising collateral damage,” he said.
The Defence Headquarters said the joint action underscored the resolve of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) to confront transnational terrorism, working closely with strategic international partners.
“This action clearly demonstrates the unwavering resolve of the FGN, in collaboration with strategic international partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from gaining any foothold within our borders,” Uba said.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to the protection of lives and property across the country, saying security operations would continue in line with national objectives.
The defence spokesperson added that the military would sustain cooperation with local and international partners to address security challenges.
Uba said the armed forces would continue to support joint, inter agency and international efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across Nigeria.
However, the Defence Headquarters did not disclose further operational details but emphasised that the strikes formed part of ongoing measures to counter terrorist threats and disrupt the activities of foreign linked extremist elements operating within the region.
Also, the statement reinforced the position that Nigeria remains actively engaged with international partners to address security risks and prevent the establishment of terrorist networks within its borders.
