Military officials have reassured Nigerians that the recent US precision airstrikes in North West Nigeria were aimed solely at confirmed terrorist targets and their logistical support bases.
According to these officials, the operation was a collaborative effort between Nigerian forces and the US military and was executed successfully.
A senior military official stated that Nigeria identified and provided the targets, while the US conducted the airstrikes.
He also mentioned that security forces are currently engaged in follow-up operations on the ground.
The officials indicated that intelligence reports revealed a significant movement of armed terrorists and bandits from Mali and Burkina Faso into regions of Sokoto, Zamfara, Niger, and Katsina states.
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These groups were reportedly planning coordinated attacks during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Among the targeted groups were factions linked to ISIS, including the Lakurawa and Jenni groups, which were said to be mobilizing fighters from the Sahel region.
Military sources emphasized that the operation was meticulously planned, utilizing advanced surveillance to ensure precision and minimize civilian casualties.
They reiterated that only terrorist fighters and supply centers were struck during the operation.
The military stated that the operation underscores the increasing collaboration between Nigeria and international partners in combating cross-border terrorism and preventing large-scale attacks in the North West.
