Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters has disclosed that a comprehensive review of the recent joint air operation involving United States forces and the Nigerian military in Sokoto State is still in progress.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the military is currently conducting a detailed battle damage assessment of the airstrikes. He assured journalists that the outcome of the evaluation would be released once the process is concluded.
According to Onoja, intelligence reports had confirmed the presence of terrorist elements in the affected locations before the strikes were carried out. However, he explained that sensitive operational details were deliberately withheld from public disclosure for security reasons.
He noted that Sokoto’s closeness to the Sahel region makes it a critical area in counterterrorism efforts, adding that the operation was based on credible intelligence and carefully planned coordination.
The defence spokesperson further revealed that the military continues to closely monitor the movement of terrorist groups, working with commanders on the ground to prevent insurgents from blending into civilian communities or launching further attacks.
Onoja stressed that maintaining national security requires cooperation beyond the military alone, urging citizens to support security agencies by providing useful information. He described this collaborative effort as a “whole-of-society” approach to addressing security challenges.
Responding to public criticism surrounding the joint airstrikes, the general made it clear that the Armed Forces remain focused on achieving operational goals rather than engaging in media debates. He said military efforts are driven by tactical objectives, not public commentary.
He also cautioned civilians against keeping any ammunition remnants or materials linked to the operation, warning that such items could be dangerous. He urged anyone in possession of such materials to hand them over to the nearest military or security authority for safe handling.
Onoja concluded by reaffirming the Armed Forces’ resolve to sustain offensive operations against terrorist groups as the country moves further into the new year.
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