The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) today urged residents of Sokoto State to immediately return any explosive materials they may have collected from the site of the recent U.S. airstrike in Jabo community. The airstrike, conducted on Christmas Day 2025, targeted Islamic State linked camps in the area.
Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasized the grave risks posed by these items. "These materials are unexploded ordnance and could detonate at any time, endangering lives and property," he stated. The DHQ warned that handling such devices without proper expertise could lead to accidental explosions.
The appeal comes amid reports that some locals visited the site after the strikes and removed fragments or intact explosives as souvenirs or scrap metal. Authorities believe this occurred in the aftermath of the operation, which involved Tomahawk missile strikes on terrorist positions in Sokoto State.
Residents are advised to surrender any such materials to the nearest military formation, police station, or local authorities without delay. The DHQ assured the public that no punitive actions will be taken against those who voluntarily return the items. Instead, the focus remains on ensuring community safety.
This incident follows the U.S.-backed airstrikes on December 25, 2025, which hit two ISIS-linked camps in northwest Nigeria. The operation, coordinated with Nigerian forces, aimed to disrupt terrorist activities in the region. Sokoto's location near the Sahel corridor has made it a growing concern for extremist expansion.
The Nigerian military reiterated its commitment to counter terrorism efforts and public safety. "We appreciate the cooperation of Sokoto residents in this matter and urge everyone to prioritize safety," General Onoja added.