In response to escalating security concerns and threats of violence against religious communities in Nigeria, the United States has initiated intelligence gathering surveillance flights over key areas of the country.
These operations, which began in late November, follow President Donald J. Trump's public warnings of potential U.S. military intervention if the Nigerian government fails to address ongoing terrorist activities.
The surveillance missions are focused on tracking militant groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), as well as locating a kidnapped American pilot.
Operated from U.S. military facilities in Accra, Ghana, these flights represent a renewed commitment to regional stability and intelligence cooperation between the U.S. and its African partners, particularly after the relocation of assets following the closure of U.S. bases in Niger.
President Trump, in a November social media post, emphasized the urgency of the situation: "The slaughter of Christians in Nigeria by Islamic terrorists must stop immediately. If Nigeria doesn't act, we will cut off all aid and go in guns-a-blazing to wipe them out. The Department of War is preparing options." This directive has prompted productive discussions with Nigerian authorities on counterterrorism efforts and religious freedoms.
U.S. officials have described the flights as a critical step in rebuilding intelligence capabilities in West Africa, amid broader concerns over the spread of extremism. The Department of Defense remains committed to working with international allies to combat terrorism and protect vulnerable populations.