Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar affirmed that the recent US airstrikes in Nigeria, conducted on December 25, 2023, were coordinated with the Nigerian government in a focused effort to combat terrorism. This statement came during an interview on CNN’s “Early Start,” where Tuggar stressed that the strikes were not religiously motivated, but rather aimed at protecting innocent civilians and the broader region.
During the interview, Tuggar emphasized the commitment of the Tinubu administration to fighting terrorism in Nigeria, highlighting the ongoing collaboration with the US government. He stated, “Terrorists are being targeted. This has always been Nigeria’s approach.” Tuggar underscored that the coordinated strikes reflect Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate with any foreign government dedicated to combating terrorism.
The Foreign Minister detailed a series of communications leading up to the strikes, including a 90-minute phone call with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Following this discussion, Tuggar conveyed the situation to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who approved the action. Tuggar noted, “This was coordinated with the U.S., the same way that we’ve been saying we are ready, willing, and able to collaborate.”
In his remarks, Tuggar clarified that the focus of these operations is on addressing the threat posed by terrorists, asserting that the situation at hand is about “Nigerians, innocent civilians, and the wider region as a whole.” He aims to dispel any misconceptions regarding the motivations behind the strikes, reinforcing that the initiative is strictly about enhancing security and stability in Nigeria.
The airstrikes represent a significant moment in US-Nigeria relations, particularly in the context of shared security interests. As both countries work to dismantle terrorist networks, the collaboration underscores a mutual commitment to regional safety. The Tinubu administration’s proactive approach signals a robust strategy to confront ongoing security challenges facing Nigeria.
This latest development highlights the complex dynamics of international cooperation in addressing terrorism. With both nations focused on the shared goal of security, the coordinated efforts are seen as a pivotal step in enhancing Nigeria’s ability to combat extremist threats effectively.
Tuggar’s statements reflect a broader acknowledgment of the need for international partnerships in the fight against terrorism. The Nigerian government’s willingness to collaborate with the US is indicative of its strategic priorities under the Tinubu administration, which has pledged to confront the security challenges that have plagued the nation for years.
The fight against terrorism in Nigeria is multifaceted, involving not just military action but also addressing the underlying issues that contribute to extremist ideologies. As the situation evolves, the Nigerian government continues to seek additional support and resources to bolster its efforts against terrorism, aiming for a safer environment for its citizens.