On December 25, 2023, President Donald Trump announced that the United States launched airstrikes targeting Islamic State forces in Nigeria. This action followed weeks of criticism directed at the Nigerian government for its perceived failure to protect Christians from violence. The specifics of the strikes, which occurred in Sokoto state, were not disclosed, including the extent of damage or casualties.

A Defense Department official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the U.S. collaborated with the Nigerian government to execute the strikes, which were sanctioned by Nigerian authorities. The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that this cooperation involved intelligence sharing and strategic coordination, adhering to international law and mutual respect for sovereignty.

Trump characterized the airstrikes as a response to the Islamic State's targeting of Christians, although local residents and analysts note that Nigeria's security challenges affect both Christian and Muslim communities. The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that terrorist violence against any group undermines the country's values and international peace.

Nigeria faces threats from multiple armed groups, including factions affiliated with the Islamic State, such as the Islamic State West Africa Province and the Lakurawa group, which has gained notoriety for its violent actions in the northwest. Security experts indicate that the U.S. strikes may have targeted the Lakurawa group, which has increasingly threatened remote communities and security personnel.

The Nigerian government has previously asserted that attacks by extremist groups have impacted individuals of various faiths, not solely Christians. In response to ongoing violence, Trump had previously directed the Pentagon to prepare for military action in Nigeria to address what he termed Christian persecution. The U.S. State Department has also restricted visas for Nigerians involved in violence against Christians and designated Nigeria as a “country of particular concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act.

Trump claimed that U.S. defense officials executed the strikes with precision, asserting that the U.S. would not permit radical Islamic terrorism to thrive. Nigeria's population of approximately 220 million is nearly evenly divided between Christians and Muslims, and the country has long struggled with insecurity stemming from various extremist groups, including Boko Haram, which targets both Muslims and Christians.

The motives behind attacks in Nigeria are complex, encompassing religious, ethnic, and resource-based conflicts. The U.S. military presence in Africa has diminished in recent years, with many partnerships being reduced or terminated, raising questions about the feasibility of larger-scale military interventions in Nigeria.

Despite these challenges, Trump has maintained pressure on Nigeria amid a series of violent incidents affecting both schools and places of worship. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reiterated the administration's commitment to addressing violence against Christians, highlighting the readiness of U.S. military forces to respond to threats from groups like ISIS.