President Donald Trump ordered the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) to launch a “powerful and deadly” air strike against ISIS (Islamic State) forces in Sokoto State, Nigeria.
The operation, which Trump announced via Truth Social while celebrating the holiday at Mar-a-Lago, marks the first time the U.S. has used direct lethal force in Nigeria under the banner of protecting “innocent Christians.”
The strikes were executed at the request of the Nigerian government, signaling a new, aggressive era of U.S.-Nigeria security cooperation.
“Hell to Pay”: The Hegseth-Trump Strategy
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed the mission, which he dubbed a success, warning that “more is to come.” The strikes follow months of tension between Washington and Abuja, during which Trump accused the Nigerian government of failing to curb the persecution of religious minorities.
“I have previously warned these Terrorists that if they did not stop the slaughtering of Christians, there would be hell to pay, and tonight, there was,” Trump wrote. He described the operation as a series of “numerous perfect strikes” executed by the “Department of War” (a term his administration has revived).
Key Details of the Sokoto Strike:
- Target: ISIS-West Africa (ISIS-WA) hideouts in the Northwest forests.
- Casualties: AFRICOM’s initial assessment reports “multiple ISIS terrorists” killed. No civilian casualties have been officially confirmed.
- The “Cooperation” Clause: Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated the strikes were “precision hits” coordinated with Nigerian intelligence to ensure sovereignty was respected.
- The Location: Sokoto State is a known transit point for militants crossing from Niger into Nigeria, making it a high-value strategic target.
The Religious Diplomacy Angle
The U.S. recently designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” under the International Religious Freedom Act. By striking on Christmas night, Trump has sent a symbolic message to his domestic base, framing the U.S. military as the global protector of faith.
However, Nigerian officials, including Daniel Bwala (Special Advisor to President Tinubu), emphasized that the fight is against terrorism in all forms, noting that both Christians and Muslims have been victims of ISIS-WA and Boko Haram.
What Happens Next?
Defense Secretary Hegseth’s remark “More to come… Merry Christmas!” suggests that this is not a one-off event. Analysts expect a “sachet-style” military intervention model where the U.S. provides precision air support and drone surveillance while Nigerian ground forces conduct follow-up operations.
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