The airstrikes, carried out late on December 25 and into the early hours of December 26, 2025, were a joint effort between the United States and Nigerian forces. The operation focused on militant encampments linked to the Islamic State in the Bauni Forest area of Sokoto State. Precision-guided munitions and drones were used in the strikes, which were authorized by President Bola Tinubu and executed by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM).
Nigerian defense officials stated that the operation was based on intelligence and successfully eliminated targeted threats while minimizing risks to civilians. However, post-strike assessments are still underway, with the military pledging to release more details once evaluations are complete.
Despite assurances that no civilians were harmed, falling debris and unidentified objects near residential areas have raised concerns. Authorities are now urging locals to turn in any recovered explosives or remnants to security forces to prevent accidents and aid in damage assessments.
The Sokoto State Government has reiterated that the operation was part of broader efforts to combat extremist threats and protect communities. Officials continue to emphasize that civilian safety was a top priority during the strikes.
Community leaders have also called for calm, urging residents to cooperate with security agencies to ensure public safety as the region recovers from the military action.
