Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi (Remi) Tinubu, has praised the U.S. military airstrikes in northern Nigeria, calling them a “blessing” and urging U.S. President Donald Trump to order more strikes against extremist groups.
Her comments came during an interview with Fox News Digital while she was in the United States.
Mrs. Tinubu said Nigeria is open to deeper collaboration with the U.S. on security issues.
She said the country expects continued support, including further military action against terrorist and bandit groups operating in northern Nigeria.
“Nigeria is looking forward to collaboration with the U.S. on security issues. We are expecting that there will be more,” she said.
The airstrikes took place on Christmas Day 2025, marking the first direct U.S. military action on Nigerian soil.
U.S. authorities stated the strikes targeted suspected militants linked to Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and other extremist groups in Sokoto State, northwest Nigeria.
The Nigerian government later confirmed the operation, describing it as a “precision hit on terrorist targets” carried out with the approval of Nigerian authorities.
Nigeria has been facing escalating security threats from Boko Haram, ISWAP, and armed bandits.
Recent attacks in parts of the country have increased pressure on the government to act decisively.
In early February 2026, a brutal attack in Kwara State killed at least 162 people, making it one of the deadliest attacks in recent years.
Such incidents have intensified calls for stronger military responses.
The First Lady’s remarks come amid ongoing tensions between Nigeria and the United States over religious violence and human rights concerns.
President Donald Trump had previously warned of further U.S. action if attacks against Christians continued. Nigeria, however, insists that its security operations target all violent groups regardless of religion.
U.S. officials have reportedly deployed a small team to support intelligence and coordination efforts following the airstrikes.
Mrs. Tinubu’s comments signal Nigeria’s willingness to accept foreign support in fighting terrorism.
At the same time, the government continues to stress national sovereignty and its authority over internal security decisions.
