US airstrikes decimated terrorists’ enclaves – Sokoto govt

The Sokoto State Government has confirmed that a joint military air operation involving Nigerian forces and the United States targeted terrorist enclaves in Tangaza Local Government Area, stressing that no civilian casualties were recorded.

The government said investigations and post-strike assessments are still ongoing following the operation, which it described as part of sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist and bandit networks operating within the state and along Nigeria’s northwestern borders.

The clarification was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the Director-General of Media and Publicity, Government House, Sokoto, Abubakar Bawa, and made available to journalists in the state capital.

According to the statement, the airstrikes were carried out on Wednesday, with security agencies still awaiting detailed assessment reports from the Joint Operations.

“The impact of the airstrike could not be immediately determined as assessment reports from the Joint Operations are still being awaited,” the statement said.

The state government also addressed public concerns surrounding the discovery of suspicious objects near Jabo town in Tambuwal Local Government Area, noting that investigations into the matter remain inconclusive.

“The circumstances surrounding the objects found in a location near Jabo town could not be immediately explained, as the outcome of analysis by Nigeria–US military authorities is being awaited,” Bawa stated.

He emphasised that despite ongoing investigations in both Tangaza and Jabo communities, no civilian casualties were recorded in either location.

“Sokoto State welcomes any collaboration between Nigeria and all relevant global stakeholders aimed at curbing the menace of terrorism and cross-border crimes in the state,” the statement noted.

The government reiterated its commitment to supporting security agencies as operations continue across the state.

“The Sokoto State government has consistently supported security agencies in the fight against banditry and terrorism by providing necessary equipment to enhance safety across the state,” the statement said.

It further appealed to residents to continue cooperating with security agencies while investigations are concluded.

“The government calls on residents to continue to pray to Almighty Allah to assist our security agencies to defeat criminals in the state and the country at large,” the statement concluded.

It was earlier reported that the United States and Nigeria jointly carried out airstrikes on what were described as terrorist hotspots in Sokoto State.

Amid public debate over Nigeria’s awareness of the operation, the Bola Tinubu-led administration has maintained that it was fully informed and involved.