The Armed Forces of Nigeria has said the recent airstrikes in the North West demonstrate the Federal Government’s unwavering resolve to confront terrorism, carried out in collaboration with the United States.
The Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, saying the operation followed credible intelligence and was aimed at degrading the operational capabilities of the terrorists while minimising collateral damage.
According to him, the strikes were conducted with the approval of appropriate authorities as part of sustained efforts to rid the country of terrorists and other criminal elements threatening national security.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in conjunction with the United States of America, has successfully conducted precision strike operations against identified foreign ISIS-linked elements operating in parts of North West Nigeria,” Uba said.
He added, “The strikes followed credible intelligence and careful operational planning aimed at degrading the operational capabilities of the terrorists while minimising collateral damage.”
Uba said the operation underscored the resolve of the Federal Government, working with strategic international partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from establishing or expanding footholds within Nigeria.
“This action clearly demonstrates the unwavering resolve of the Federal Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with strategic international partners, to confront transnational terrorism and prevent foreign fighters from gaining any foothold within our borders,” he said.
The defence spokesman reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces to the protection of lives and property across the country.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains fully committed to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians and will continue to support joint, inter-agency and international efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across the country,” Uba said.
