Attack in North-West: Joint US-Nigeria security operation – DHQ

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that the recent joint air strikes conducted by Nigerian and United States military forces against ISIS terrorist elements in North-West Nigeria were carried out with the approval of appropriate Federal Government authorities.

This was disclosed on Friday by the Director of Defence Information (DDI), Major General Samaila Uba, in a statement titled “Armed Forces of Nigeria in Conjunction with the United States Conducts Precision Strikes Against Foreign ISIS Elements in North-West Nigeria.”

Major General Uba stated that the operation formed part of ongoing coordinated efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and other criminal groups posing serious threats to Nigeria’s national security.

According to him, the strikes were executed based on credible intelligence and followed detailed operational planning aimed at significantly degrading the operational capabilities of the targeted terrorist elements while minimising collateral damage.

He noted that the joint operation underscores the resolve of the Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with strategic international partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from establishing or expanding footholds within the country.

The DDI reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property, stressing that the military will continue to support joint, inter-agency and international efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the nation.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria reiterates its unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property and to supporting joint and inter-agency efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across all parts of the country,” the statement concluded.