Days after a U.S.-backed airstrike on Christmas Day, Nigerian military authorities have asked locals in certain parts of Sokoto State to voluntarily return any explosives and suspected ordnance taken from the hit locations, citing safety concerns and the potential of inadvertent detonation.
The United States, in collaboration with Nigerian authorities, conducted precision air strikes targeting Islamic State-linked militant encampments in Sokoto State’s Bauni Forest late on December 25 and early on December 26, 2025.
The actions, authorized by President Bola Tinubu and carried out by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), involved the use of GPS-guided missiles and unmanned aircraft platforms to degrade extremist networks thought to be operating along the Sahel corridor.
According to a statement from Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters, the action was intelligence-driven and met its goal of neutralizing designated threat components while minimizing impact to civilians. Post-strike reviews were ongoing, with the military promising additional information once the evaluations were completed.
Despite government claims that no innocent individuals were killed, the presence of falling debris and unexplained items in and around towns has raised concerns. In response, military authorities have urged people to promptly turn over any looted explosives or munitions to security services.
This warning is meant to prevent unintentional explosions and to aid in a complete battle damage assessment, as unexploded fragments can pose serious threats in residential areas.
Residents in affected regions are encouraged to report the presence of any suspicious materials.
The military has also stated that credible information from communities is critical to guaranteeing public safety and preventing injuries during cleanup efforts.
The Sokoto State Government has earlier confirmed the strikes, stating that the combined operation with US forces was part of larger measures to safeguard lives and property from Islamist threats.
Authorities continue to reassure people that the strikes were meticulously planned with civilian safety as a top priority.
Additionally, community leaders and traditional authorities have appealed for calm and cooperation with security forces, emphasizing the significance of community safety as the region deals with the aftermath of the military operations.
