The Democratic Front (TDF) has welcomed the recent joint military operation between the United States and Nigeria which resulted in precision airstrikes against terrorist locations in Sokoto State.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Mallam Danjuma Muhammad, and Secretary, Chief Wale Adedayo, the group said the operation reflected the growing strength of security and intelligence cooperation between both countries, stressing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu gave the necessary approval before the strikes were executed.
TDF described the airstrikes as a commendable outcome of sustained Nigeria–United States collaboration on counter-terrorism and intelligence sharing, added that the operation demonstrated the benefits of international partnership in combating insecurity.
The group noted that the coordinated strikes followed weeks of joint intelligence gathering and surveillance operations by Nigerian and US forces, with President Tinubu’s authorisation ensuring respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and the protection of civilian lives.
Rejecting claims of territorial violation, TDF insisted that the strikes were conducted at the behest of the Nigerian government. It cited the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, who reportedly confirmed that he was in contact with the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, shortly before the strikes and that both officials agreed to seek President Tinubu’s approval.
The group also referred to a statement by the US Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, who confirmed that the airstrikes were carried out in coordination with Nigerian authorities and expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s cooperation.
While noting that details of the impact of the airstrikes are still emerging, TDF said assurances by the Defence Headquarters that the operation was designed to weaken terrorist networks while minimising civilian casualties were reassuring.
The Democratic Front added that the operation could pave the way for further joint airstrikes against terrorist enclaves in the coming weeks and called on Nigerians to support the Tinubu administration’s efforts to restore security and stability across the country.
