DHQ Confirms Ongoing Assessment Of U.S.-Nigeria Airstrikes In Sokoto

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has stated that the assessment of damage from recent joint United States-Nigerian airstrikes in Sokoto is still ongoing.

Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, spoke with journalists in Abuja on Wednesday, assuring that the findings of the evaluation would be released once the process is complete.

Commenting on the effectiveness of the strikes, Onoja said, “There is an ongoing battle damage assessment of the U.S. strikes carried out in conjunction with Nigerian forces. Once this is concluded, we will communicate our observations to the public.” His remarks come amid public debate over whether the operations achieved their intended objectives.

Onoja confirmed that intelligence had verified the presence of terrorists in the targeted areas before the strikes, adding that the decision not to publicize their locations was made for operational security. He noted that terrorist activity in Sokoto is linked to its proximity to the Sahel region and emphasized that the operations were guided by intelligence.

The military continues to monitor terrorist movements and works closely with local commanders to prevent infiltration into communities. “We are doing everything necessary, communicating with all force commanders to stop terrorists from assimilating into communities and causing further havoc,” Onoja said.

He urged civilians to assist security agencies with information, describing this approach as a “whole-of-society” strategy. “Security or insecurity can only be addressed through the cooperation of every member of society,” he added.

Responding to public criticism of the joint operation, Onoja emphasized that the Armed Forces would not engage with every opinion expressed in the media, stressing that their focus remains on operational activities.

He also called on anyone in possession of ammunition fragments or materials from the strike sites to hand them over to security agencies, warning that such items could cause further harm if mishandled.

Onoja concluded by assuring Nigerians that the military remains committed to sustained operations against terrorist groups into the new year.