Northern Group Fumes as US Strikes ISIS-Linked Fighters in North-west

The Arewa Take-It-Back (ATIB) Movement has said the United States must respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and prioritise civilian safety in its counterterrorism operations in north-western Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Friday by its coordinator, Nazif Bashi, the group acknowledged the reported military action and recognised the urgency of efforts aimed at combating terrorism in the region. However, it warned that such interventions must not undermine Nigeria’s national autonomy or worsen insecurity.

SaharaReporters had earlier reported that on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, US President Donald Trump announced that the United States carried out what he described as “numerous precise strikes” against terrorists in north-west Nigeria, whom he accused of mass killings of Christians.

Trump said the operation was authorised by him as Commander-in-Chief and targeted ISIS-linked fighters operating in areas that have experienced prolonged violence and instability. According to him, the militants had been “viciously killing, primarily innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even centuries.”

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He added that he had previously warned the groups to halt the attacks or face consequences.

The Nigerian government later confirmed, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Armed Forces of Nigeria, that the strikes were carried out in collaboration with the United States.

Reacting, ATIB said it commended efforts aimed at dismantling terrorist networks that continue to terrorise communities across the North-west, noting that both Christians and Muslims have been victims of extremist violence.

The group, however, cautioned that foreign military operations must be conducted strictly in coordination with Nigerian authorities to avoid infringing on the country’s sovereignty.

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According to ATIB, counterterrorism operations should be precise and carefully executed to minimise harm to civilians and prevent the escalation of local tensions.

The group also argued that military action alone cannot resolve the problem of terrorism, calling for broader strategies to address the root causes of insecurity.

It urged the Nigerian government and regional stakeholders to strengthen local security frameworks, improve intelligence gathering and enhance socio-economic resilience as part of a comprehensive response.

“Arewa TIB stands firmly against terrorism in all its forms,” the group said, adding that while actions that neutralise threats are welcome, they must protect lives, respect Nigeria’s sovereignty and ensure long-term stability for affected communities.