The Nigerian Government Reveals It Provided Intelligence for Christmas Day Military Strikes as US Official Predicts of Additional Attacks

Nigeria's government has confirmed that it played a role in the US airstrikes carried out on December 25, as stated by the nation's foreign minister this week.

Ex-President Donald Trump previously declared the strikes against Islamic State militants in north-west Nigeria after spending weeks criticizing the group for targeting Christians.

Detailed Consultations Preceded the Operation

Nigeria's top diplomat, Yusuf Tuggar, indicated that he had engaged in "lengthy" discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio immediately prior to and following the airstrike.

He also noted that Nigeria's leader, Bola Tinubu, had given the "go-ahead" for the military action. Tuggar did not rule out additional operations, describing them as an "continuous effort" that would also involve other countries.

"The strikes had no connection to a particular religion," Tuggar emphasized in an discussion with the BBC. "It is about attacking terrorists who have been killing Nigerians."

American Official Predicts of More Actions in Nigeria

Hours after the initial strikes, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth warned of additional military actions against ISIS locations in the region.

Hegseth described the strikes as part of efforts to stop the killing of Christians, a position echoed by the former president. In a public statement, Hegseth stated, "He was clear... the murder of innocent Christians in Nigeria must end. More to come..."

Political Reaction to the Military Action

The holiday military operation were hailed by some political allies of the ex-leader, who had been agitating for a strong military reaction to the violence against Christians.

"I can’t think of a more fitting manner to celebrate Christmas than by responding to the killings of Christians," posted one well-known political figure on social media.

Key Points from the Revelations

• Intelligence Sharing: Nigeria supplied key intelligence for the US-led airstrikes.
• Presidential Authorization: President Bola Tinubu personally authorized the strikes.
• Ongoing Process: The campaign is described as an "continuing mission" with potential for more strikes.
• Non-Religious Aim: Nigerian officials strongly insist the strikes are solely about combating militants, not religion.
• US Commitment: A top American defense leader has signaled further strikes are on the horizon.

The situation underscores the evolving military partnership between Nigeria and the US in combating terrorist threats in the region.