BREAKING: Nigerian Military Tracks Terrorists Fleeing After US Christmas Strikes

• Following US airstrikes against Boko Haram and ISIS in northwestern Nigeria, the military is monitoring fleeing fighters.

The Nigerian military is actively tracking Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters reportedly fleeing their hideouts after US airstrikes in northwestern Nigeria on Christmas Day.

US President Donald Trump confirmed the operation, which the Nigerian Federal Government described as part of ongoing counterterrorism cooperation.

Local leaders in Benue, Sokoto, and other states reported movements of armed groups into new areas, with some attempting to cross into neighbouring border communities. Senior military officials confirmed that intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations are ongoing to monitor the situation.

The strikes and subsequent reports of fleeing fighters have reignited debates over the possible deployment of US troops in Nigeria. While the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, said the Ministry of Defence would advise on next steps, retired military officers expressed differing opinions.

Brigadier-General Peter Aro (retd.) opposed any US troop deployment, citing legal, diplomatic, and social risks, warning that foreign soldiers could deepen internal mistrust and fuel insurgent propaganda.

“Foreign boots on the ground can only follow a formal Defence Pact approved at the highest levels, and even then, the consequences would be profound,” he said.

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Conversely, Brigadier-General Bashir Adewinbi (retd.) supported closer security collaboration, noting that joint efforts with the US—like the Christmas Day strike—are part of ongoing cooperation.

He argued that advisory and technological support could enhance Nigeria’s counterterrorism capacity without undermining the morale of local troops.

Group Captain Sadique Shehu (retd.), a former Nigerian Air Force spokesperson, also cautioned against relying on foreign soldiers to fight on Nigerian soil, emphasizing the importance of Nigerian control over operations and clear communication with citizens.

Meanwhile, US Congressman Riley Moore defended the strikes, stating they were intended to protect Christians facing violence in Nigeria and bring hope to affected communities.

The situation underscores Nigeria’s delicate security landscape and highlights the tension between foreign assistance and national sovereignty in ongoing counterterrorism efforts.