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US airstrikes in Sokoto targeted terrorist hideouts, vehicles destroyed
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Footage shows multiple strikes, secondary explosions, terrorists fleeing
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Military conducts battle damage assessment on US–Nigeria counterterrorism operation
Video footage obtained by Sunday PUNCH has confirmed that several terrorists were killed during United States airstrikes carried out in parts of Sokoto State between December 24 and 25, 2025.
The footage, which has not yet been formally declassified by the military, shows three coordinated strikes on suspected terrorist camps, resulting in the destruction of hideouts and vehicles. A secondary explosion seen shortly after the initial strike suggests that explosives or ammunition were stored at the targeted locations.
READ ALSO: Chief of Army Staff Visits Sultan of Sokoto after US Air Strikes
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The video also captured suspected terrorists attempting to flee the area following the bombardment, after which further strikes were carried out. Several vehicles were visibly destroyed, although the exact number of casualties and losses could not be independently verified from the footage alone.
Military sources explained that a detailed battle damage assessment was still ongoing to determine the full impact of the operation. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, confirmed that findings would be made public once the assessment is completed.
The strikes were earlier announced by United States President Donald Trump on Christmas Day, describing them as lethal attacks on Islamic State targets in north-western Nigeria.
The Federal Government later confirmed the operation, noting that it formed part of sustained counterterrorism cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, despite claims in some quarters that the strikes had no significant effect.
