The Nigerian government has confirmed that it provided crucial intelligence in the American military operation conducted on December 25, according to the nation's foreign minister this week.
Ex-President Donald Trump previously declared the aerial attacks against Islamic State militants in the northwestern region of Nigeria after a period of criticizing the group for attacking Christians.
Detailed Discussions Came Before the Operation
Nigeria's top diplomat, Yusuf Tuggar, explained that he had engaged in "lengthy" discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio both prior to and following the attack.
He further added that Nigeria's leader, Bola Tinubu, had given the "go-ahead" for the military action. Tuggar left the door open for additional operations, characterizing them as an "continuous effort" that would also involve other countries.
"This operation had no connection to a particular religion," Tuggar insisted in an discussion with the BBC. "The objective is about targeting militants who have been murdering Nigerian citizens."
American Official Predicts of More Strikes in Nigeria
Shortly following the initial strikes, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned of more strikes against ISIS locations in the region.
Hegseth described the strikes as part of a mission 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 innocent Christians in Nigeria must end. More to come..."
Supporters' Response to the Airstrikes
The Christmas Day strikes were met with praise by certain supporters of the former president, who had been agitating for a forceful response to the attacks against Christians.
"There is no a better way to celebrate Christmas than by avenging the death of Christians," commented one prominent activist on a digital platform.
Key Points from the Revelations
- Cooperation: Nigeria actively provided key intelligence for the American operation.
- High-Level Approval: President Bola Tinubu personally authorized the strikes.
- Continuous Effort: The operation is described as an "continuing mission" with potential for more strikes.
- Secular Objective: Nigerian officials strongly insist the targeting are focused on combating militants, not religious affiliation.
- US Commitment: A senior US defense leader has indicated further military actions are on the horizon.
The situation underscores the evolving security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in combating militant groups in the Sahel area.
