Many terrorists were killed, while their hideouts and vehicles were destroyed during United States airstrikes carried out in Sokoto State on December 25, footage sighted by Sunday PUNCH has revealed. The video also captured movements of suspected terrorists fleeing the area following the initial bombardment. However, the exact number of terrorists killed or vehicles destroyed could not be independently ascertained from the footage alone. The United States President, Donald Trump, had earlier announced on Christmas Day that the American military conducted lethal strikes against Islamic State targets in north-western Nigeria. The Federal Government subsequently confirmed the operation, describing it as part of ongoing counterterrorism cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.

Source: Punch January 11, 2026 11:23 UTC