A Resilient and Focused Nigerian Counterterrorism Strategy

Nigeria, long plagued by the violence of Boko Haram and ISIS-inspired factions, has responded with unprecedented resolve. Recently, this effort has been amplified through deepened collaboration with the United States, leading to carefully planned airstrikes aimed at dismantling known terrorist hideouts. These operations are not haphazard; instead, they are backed by robust intelligence and executed with surgical precision. For example, in Sokoto State—an area bordering Niger—multiple terror camps have been neutralized, demonstrating Nigeria’s strong resolve. Despite some external criticisms suggesting these actions are motivated by religious bias, Nigerian officials assert with conviction that this fight is about security, unity, and sovereignty, not religion. This strategic alliance underlines Nigeria’s clear stance: defending its diverse populace and sovereignty is paramount, and its partnership with the US is a testament to their shared goal of defeating extremism stringently and responsibly. Such collaboration not only bolsters Nigeria’s defenses but also signals to the world that fighting terror is a collective, unwavering pursuit, not driven by divisive motives but by a genuine desire for peace and stability.