Following the announcement made by the president of the United States (US), Donald Trump, that precision airstrikes were conducted by the US against terrorists in Nigeria, authorities in Nigeria have confirmed this development, noting it targeted terrorist targets in the northwest of Nigeria.

At least five people were killed and 35 others injured when a bomb exploded inside a crowded mosque during evening prayers in Maiduguri, the capital of Nigeria’s north-eastern Borno State, police said. The blast occurred in the Gamboru market area of the city, according to Borno State police spokesperson Nahum Daso, who told local media that the incident is suspected to be a suicide attack. Unverified videos circulating on social media showed dust-filled scenes, and people gathered at the site shortly after the explosion.

The Nigerian Government has revealed that Nigerian Security Agencies, in collaboration with leading social media platforms, are intensifying efforts to identify and suspend accounts exploited by terrorists and criminal gangs for propaganda and soliciting funds.

The United States has been conducting intelligence-gathering flights over large parts of Nigeria since late November, according to Reuters, citing flight-tracking data and current and former U.S. officials. The surveillance activity underscores a renewed phase of security cooperation between Washington and Abuja amid escalating violence and diplomatic tensions.

Nigerians have been reassured by the Defense Headquarters (DHQ) that there will be increased security measures throughout the country during the Christmas season. The DHQ has announced the deployment of additional troops, special forces, and aviation assets to deter attacks and ensure a peaceful celebration. In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, Michael Onoja, Director of Defense Media Operations, provided the guarantee.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Oluwatosin Ajayi, on his recognition as a champion of press freedom by the Nigerian National Committee of the International Press Institute (IPI). At the IPI's Annual Conference, which took place in Abuja on December 2, 2025, Ajayi was given a commendation award for his "unmistakable commitment to press freedom and respect for journalists and media organisations" since his appointment in late August 2024.