The Nigerian Army has officially confirmed the success of coordinated airstrikes with the United States that targeted terrorist hideouts in Sokoto State on Christmas Day, while also revealing that debris believed to be from the munitions has been located over 100 kilometers away.
In a statement released Monday, Acting Army Spokesperson Colonel Appolonia Anele detailed the operation, which involved troops of the Combat Intelligence Battalion VII. Acting on "credible intelligence," the soldiers coordinated with US Africa Command (AFRICOM) to strike specific Lakurawa group camps within the Bauni Forest in Sokoto's Tangaza Local Government Area.
Follow-Up Patrols Confirm "Extensive Destruction"
The army's confirmation comes after initial reports of the strikes. According to Colonel Anele, follow-up ground patrols conducted on December 26 verified the impact. The assessment confirmed "extensive destruction of terrorist positions," which has "significantly degrad[ed] their operational capability." This aligns with earlier government statements that the strikes neutralized scores of militants in the area.
Missile Debris Discovered in Neighboring Kebbi State
In a related development, the army disclosed that soldiers from the 1 Brigade, stationed in Kebbi State, have recovered debris from what are believed to be components of the munitions used in the strikes. The debris was found in Kajiji Town, Tambuwal Local Government Area, Kebbi State—a significant distance from the primary target zone in Sokoto.
Preliminary analysis by Army engineers identified some of the components as fuel boosters from Tomahawk missiles. The army described each component as weighing approximately 300 kilograms and capable of penetrating soft ground up to two meters deep. This suggests the use of powerful, ground-penetrating munitions designed to destroy fortified positions.
Ongoing Investigations and Public Safety
The Nigerian Army has assured the public that investigations are ongoing to safely locate and recover any remaining missile components. Citizens are urged to report any suspicious objects to security agencies immediately and to avoid touching unfamiliar debris.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the military's commitment to maintaining pressure on terrorist groups and safeguarding lives and property across northern Nigeria. The recovery of debris in Kebbi highlights the long-range capabilities of the weapons used and underscores the extensive operational footprint of the joint mission.
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