The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), in collaboration with the United States of America, has conducted precision strike operations against identified foreign ISIS-linked elements operating in parts of the North-West.
The Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, disclosed this in a statement on Friday in Abuja.
Uba said the operation was executed with the approval of appropriate authorities and formed part of sustained efforts to rid the country of terrorists and other criminal elements threatening national security.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in conjunction with the United States of America, has successfully conducted precision strike operations against identified foreign ISIS-linked elements operating in parts of North West Nigeria.
“The strikes followed credible intelligence and careful operational planning aimed at degrading the operational capabilities of the terrorists while minimising collateral damage.
“The operation was based on actionable intelligence and meticulous planning.
“It was deliberately calibrated to neutralise the targeted elements while minimising collateral damage,” he stated.
Uba noted that the operation underscored the resolve of the Federal Government, working with strategic partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from establishing or expanding footholds within Nigeria.
“This action clearly demonstrates the unwavering resolve of the Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with strategic international partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from gaining any foothold within our borders,” he added.
The defence spokesman reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to the protection of lives and property across the country.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains fully committed to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians and will continue to support joint, inter-agency and international efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across the country,” Uba said.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government also confirmed Air Strikes on terrorist target in the Northwest.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this in a statement on Friday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, Spokesperson of the Ministry.
The Minister explained that Nigeria is engaged in Structural Security Cooperation with International Partners, including the United States to tackle terrorism and violent extremism.
“The Ministry confirms that Nigerian authorities engaged in Structured Security Cooperation with International Partners, including the U.S. in addressing the persistent threat of terrorism and violent extremism.
“This has led to precision hits on terrorist targets in Nigeria by Air Strikes in the North West,” Tuggar said.
It will be recalled that the U.S. government had earlier confirmed it would send additional support to boost surveillance, security operations and counter-terror efforts in the northern part of Nigeria.
This is against backdrop of President Donald Trump’s order on Thursday of the U.S. air strikes against ISIS militants operating in the Northwest of Nigeria.
Tuggar reiterated the cooperation to be in line with established practice and bilateral understandings.
This, according to him, includes the exchange of Intelligence, Strategic Coordination and other forms of support consistent with International Law, mutual respect for sovereignty and shared commitment to regional and global security.
“Nigeria reiterates that all counter-terrorism efforts are guided by the primacy of protecting civilian lives, safeguarding national unity, and upholding the rights and dignity of all citizens, irrespective of faith or ethnicity.
“Terrorist violence in any form whether directed at Christian’s, Muslims or other communities remains an affront to Nigeria’s values and to international peace and security.”
He said that the Federal Government would continue to work closely with its partners through established diplomatic and security channels, to weaken terrorist networks.
He said this would also disrupt the terrorists financing and logistics, and prevent cross-border threats, while strengthening Nigeria’s own security institutions and intelligence capabilities.
“The ministry will continue to engage relevant partners and keep the public informed through appropriate official channels,” he said.
