Afenifere Backs US–Nigeria Airstrikes on Terrorists in North-West

December 26, 2025
By Tobi Akinnubi

The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has expressed support for the airstrikes carried out against terrorist elements in North-West Nigeria by the United States military in collaboration with Nigerian forces on Christmas Day.

In a statement issued on Friday, the Organising Secretary of Afenifere, Kole Omololu, described the military action as timely and necessary, following confirmation by the Defence Headquarters that the operation was conducted with the approval of the Federal Government.

Omololu said the intervention by the United States government should be commended rather than criticised, noting that terrorist groups operating in the North-West have caused widespread destruction, loss of lives, and displacement of communities across several states in the region.

He referenced the Defence Headquarters’ confirmation that the joint airstrikes, which targeted ISIS terrorist elements, were authorised by appropriate Federal Government authorities, stressing that the operation aligned with Nigeria’s counter-terrorism objectives.

According to him, the persistent activities of terrorist groups in parts of northern Nigeria continue to pose serious security challenges, requiring decisive and coordinated responses, including international military cooperation.

The airstrikes, carried out on December 25, form part of ongoing efforts to weaken the operational capabilities of insurgent groups and restore security to affected areas in the North-West.