US Congress probes Trump’s 2025 airstrikes in Nigeria

The inquiry by members of the US Congress into the December 25, 2025 airstrikes in Nigeria's North-West region, as reported by The Punch, raises critical questions about transparency and accountability in international military operations. While the Trump administration announced "flawless strikes" against "ISIS terrorist scum," Nigerian and international experts have cast doubt on the presence of a sustained ISIS operation in Sokoto State, where the strikes reportedly occurred.

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Nigerian and international experts have noted that there is currently no credible public evidence of a sustained or operational ISIS presence in Sokoto State.

This congressional probe is vital because it delves into the specifics: the legal justification, the coordination with Nigerian authorities, and the intelligence underpinning the operation. The allegations of operational errors, including missiles failing to detonate correctly or striking civilian areas like farmland and residential buildings, are deeply concerning. Furthermore, reports of unexploded munitions found in areas without known militant activity demand thorough investigation.

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at least four of 16 missiles failed to detonate as intended or missed their intended targets by hundreds of miles.

From a Nigerian perspective, understanding the full scope of US military involvement is paramount. The inquiry touches upon the broader US military posture, including the deployment of troops for training and support. It is essential that such operations are conducted with the utmost precision, respect for sovereignty, and a clear understanding of the local context to prevent civilian harm and unintended consequences. The congressional letter, with its 11 specific questions, represents a crucial step towards ensuring that US military actions abroad are well-justified, effectively executed, and do not inadvertently cause greater instability or suffering.

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The lawmakers also inquired about the coordination that occurred with the Nigerian government and military before, during, and after the strikes, including intelligence sharing, targeting details.