US Resumes Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Operations Over Northern Nigeria After Air Strikes on ISIS in Sokoto

December 30, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke

The United States has resumed intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations over Nigeria’s North-East region, focusing on militant activities in the Sambisa Forest.

The renewed ISR missions follow air strikes carried out on Thursday night against Islamic State (ISIS) fighters in parts of Sokoto State, aimed at degrading terrorist networks operating in northern Nigeria.

Security sources said the ISR flights are designed to gather real-time intelligence, monitor militant movements, and support counter-terrorism efforts in coordination with Nigerian security agencies. The operations are expected to improve situational awareness and assist ongoing efforts to dismantle remaining terrorist enclaves in the region.

Nigeria’s North-East, particularly the Sambisa Forest, has long served as a stronghold for extremist groups, including factions linked to ISIS. The latest development signals an intensification of international support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the Nigerian government nor the United States authorities have released detailed statements on the duration or full scope of the renewed ISR operations.