By Ayomide Otitoju
United States President Donald Trump has disclosed that the American government coordinated the Christmas Day air strikes carried out against Islamic State (ISIS) terrorists in Sokoto State in collaboration with the Nigerian government.
Trump made the disclosure on Thursday while addressing guests at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., stating that the strikes were aimed at degrading ISIS elements responsible for attacks on Christians in Nigeria.
According to the U.S. president, the operation was deliberately conducted on December 25 following close coordination with Nigerian authorities. He said the air strikes were ordered to “decimate the ISIS terrorists” operating in the region, describing the impact of the operation as significant.
Trump explained that he gave specific instructions for the strikes to take place on Christmas Day, noting that the timing was intentional. He added that additional strikes had since been carried out against the group.
On December 26, Trump had earlier announced that the United States conducted what he described as “powerful and deadly” air strikes against Islamic State militants in northwestern Nigeria on December 25, following warnings to the group over attacks on Christians. The U.S. Department of Defense later confirmed that multiple ISIS fighters were killed in an operation conducted at the request of Nigerian authorities.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was among the guests at the National Prayer Breakfast, which was attended by political and civic leaders from around the world. Trump acknowledged her presence at the event, describing her as a “very respected woman,” a remark that drew applause from the audience.
In his address, Trump also referenced Mrs Tinubu’s background as a Christian pastor, noting her role in religious leadership in Nigeria. He said the gathering was honoured by her attendance.
The National Prayer Breakfast is an annual event held in February, bringing together members of the U.S. Congress, religious leaders, and international guests for prayers and reflections on leadership, governance, and national values.
