U.S. airstrikes targeting IS-linked militants in Nigeria's Sokoto state this week sparked heated debates about counterterrorism strategies. While Nigerian officials confirmed collaboration with Washington, security experts warn that military action alone won’t solve the crisis.
🔍 The Big Picture
Dr. Oluwole Ojewale of Senegal’s Institute for Security Studies told NewspaperAmigo.com: "It’s like trying to put out a wildfire with a water gun – you need smarter tools." He praised improved U.S.-Nigeria intelligence sharing but stressed the need for border security upgrades and financial tracking to cripple terrorist networks.
💡 Key Insights
Nigeria approved Thursday’s strikes conducted via a Gulf of Guinea warship
Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar emphasized "precision targeting, not religious bias"
Porous borders enable militant movement across West Africa
🌍 Global Context
Former U.S. President Donald Trump called the operation "a necessary strike against Christian persecutors," while Nigerian leaders maintain the focus remains on security, not faith. With over 2 million displaced Nigerians in 2025, analysts urge investment in community resilience programs alongside military ops.
