The Nigerian Government Discloses It Supplied Key Information for US-Led Airstrikes as Defense Secretary Predicts of Additional Attacks

The Nigerian foreign ministry has stated that it provided crucial intelligence in the American military operation carried out on December 25, as stated by the nation's foreign minister this week.

Former President Donald Trump had announced the strikes targeting ISIS fighters in north-west Nigeria after a period of criticizing the group for targeting Christians.

Detailed Discussions Preceded the Operation

Nigeria's top diplomat, Yusuf Tuggar, explained that he had engaged in "extensive" phone conversations with America's top diplomat Marco Rubio immediately prior to and following the attack.

He further added that Nigeria's president, Bola Tinubu, had granted authorization for the military action. Tuggar did not rule out additional operations, characterizing them as an "continuous effort" that would potentially include international partners.

"The strikes had no connection to a specific faith," Tuggar emphasized in an interview with the BBC. "The objective is to do with targeting militants who have been killing Nigerians."

American Official Predicts of Further Strikes in Nigeria

Hours after the Christmas Day operation, Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth warned of more strikes against Islamic State targets in north-western Nigeria.

Hegseth characterized the action as part of a mission to stop the killing of Christians, a position echoed by the former president. In a public statement, Hegseth wrote, "He was clear... the murder of Christian civilians in Nigeria must cease. More to come..."

Supporters' Response to the Airstrikes

The holiday military operation were met with praise by certain supporters of the ex-leader, who had been calling for a strong military reaction to the attacks against Christians.

"There is no a better way to observe the holiday than by avenging the death of Christians," posted one prominent activist on a digital platform.

Key Points from the Revelations

• Cooperation: Nigeria supplied key intelligence for the American airstrikes.
• High-Level Approval: President Bola Tinubu personally authorized the military action.
• Continuous Effort: The operation is viewed as an "continuing mission" with potential for future actions.
• Non-Religious Aim: Nigerian officials strongly insist the strikes are solely about counter-terrorism, not religious affiliation.
• American Stance: A senior US official has signaled additional strikes are likely.

The situation underscores the complex military partnership between Nigeria and the United States in addressing terrorist threats in the region.