The United States and Nigeria carry out joint airstrikes against Islamic State targets in Nigeria, with operations reported in multiple parts of the country, including the northeast and other areas. US Africa Command (AFRICOM) says coordinated strikes have killed large numbers of Islamic State fighters, including at least 20 militants in one set of attacks, and reports that the group’s senior leadership is among those killed in the northeast. Nigerian Defence sources and local reporting describe additional strikes conducted after intelligence indicated fighters had gathered in areas such as Metele in Borno State.
Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu publicly thanks the United States for support and says he expects further “decisive strikes” against terrorist strongholds. AFRICOM commander General Dagvin Anderson also describes close cooperation with Nigeria, citing Nigeria’s role in developing targets and providing intelligence and support.
Reporting also highlights that northern Nigeria faces threats from Islamic State-affiliated jihadist groups as well as criminal gangs that kidnap villagers, and some outlets note concerns about the wider impact and potential risks to civilians. Overall, sources describe the strikes as part of intensifying joint operations between the two governments.
