Nigeria’s government has confirmed that a joint security operation with the United States has led to “precision” airstrikes against terrorist groups in the country’s North West region.

The announcement, released on Friday, was signed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa. He stated that the strikes were the result of “structured security cooperation” and deep intelligence sharing between Abuja and Washington, aimed at dismantling violent extremist networks.

According to the Ministry, the collaboration remains “consistent with international law” and is based on a mutual commitment to regional security while respecting Nigerian sovereignty.

A focus on civilian safety

The North West of Nigeria has been plagued by a surge in violence from groups the government classifies as terrorists—often referred to locally as “bandits”—who have been responsible for mass kidnappings and raids on rural communities.

In its statement, the Ministry emphasized that its counter-terrorism strategy is guided by the “primacy of protecting civilian lives” and national unity. It further noted that:

• Violence against both Christian and Muslim communities is an “affront to Nigeria’s values.”
• Operations are designed to disrupt the logistics and financing of terrorist cells.
• The partnership aims to strengthen Nigeria’s own domestic intelligence capabilities.

The statement follows years of delicate diplomacy between Nigeria and the US over military hardware sales and technical support, which have historically been tied to human rights benchmarks.

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Analysis: A new chapter in Nigeria-US relations?

By Segun Ojumu/Africa Eye News Correspondent, Abuja

This confirmation of “precision hits” marks a significant hardening of the Nigerian government’s stance in the North West, and more importantly, a deepening of its military relationship with the United States.

1. The “Invisible” Hand of US Intelligence

While the US has long provided surveillance support in the fight against Boko Haram in the North East, this level of coordination in the North West is notable. It suggests that Washington now views the “banditry” crisis in that region not just as a local criminal issue, but as a broader counter-terrorism priority linked to global security.

2. Addressing the “Sovereignty” Question

The fact that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs—rather than just the Ministry of Defence—issued this statement is telling. By explicitly mentioning “mutual respect for sovereignty,” the spokesperson is likely addressing domestic critics who are wary of foreign military intervention on Nigerian soil. It is a balancing act: accepting high-tech help without appearing dependent on a foreign power.

3. The Shift in Tactics

For much of the past decade, Nigeria’s air campaigns have faced international scrutiny over accidental civilian casualties. By branding these as “precision hits” and highlighting “intelligence collaboration,” the government is signaling to the international community that its methods have evolved. They are framing this as a professional, surgical approach to warfare rather than a blunt instrument.

4. The Human Rights Benchmark

The US has previously been hesitant to sell certain high-end military equipment (like the Super Tucano jets) to Nigeria due to human rights concerns. This new level of “strategic coordination” implies that the two nations have found a middle ground, likely involving strict oversight on how intelligence is used and how targets are selected.