The Federal Government of Nigeria, working closely with the Government of the United States of America, has carried out coordinated precision strike operations targeting two key Islamic State (ISIS) terrorist enclaves within the Bauni forest area of Tangaza Local Government Area in Sokoto State.
Intelligence reports indicated that the locations served as meeting points and operational bases for foreign ISIS fighters infiltrating Nigeria from the Sahel, in collaboration with local collaborators, to plan and launch large-scale terrorist attacks inside the country. The strikes were conducted between 12:12 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. on Friday, December 26, 2025, following formal authorisation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The operation was executed within established command and control frameworks, involving the Armed Forces of Nigeria and carried out under the oversight of the Ministers of Defence and Foreign Affairs, as well as the Chief of Defence Staff.
According to the government, the strikes were launched from maritime platforms stationed in the Gulf of Guinea after extensive intelligence collection, reconnaissance and operational planning. In total, 16 GPS-guided precision munitions were deployed using MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial systems, successfully neutralising ISIS elements attempting to enter Nigeria through the Sahel corridor.
During the operation, fragments from expended munitions reportedly landed in Jabo, Tambuwal Local Government Area of Sokoto State, and in Offa, Kwara State, near a hotel facility. Authorities confirmed that no civilian casualties were recorded in either location and that the affected areas were promptly secured. The Federal Government reaffirmed its determination to confront and eliminate terrorist threats, particularly those posed by transnational extremist groups seeking to undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and national security.
It added that Nigeria remains aligned with its strategic partners and friendly nations in carrying out coordinated efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace, strengthening border security and promoting regional stability. The government assured citizens that it retains full control of the country’s security architecture and remains committed to safeguarding lives and property. Nigerians were urged to remain calm and vigilant as operations against terrorist groups continue. The statement was signed by Mohammed Idris, Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation.
