Former Sokoto State Governor and Senator representing Sokoto South Senatorial District, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has urged residents of the state to remain calm following the U.S. military strikes on terrorists in the state, noting that there is an ongoing engagement with security agencies.

In a statement issued on Friday, via his X (formerly Twitter) account, Tambuwal said, “I have noted the reports concerning an airstrike carried out as part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts through cooperation between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the United States.”

He appealed to communities, particularly in Sokoto South, to maintain peace and abide by the law while authorities clarify the circumstances surrounding the operation.

“I urge our communities to remain calm and law-abiding as relevant authorities clarify the circumstances surrounding the operation,” he said.

SaharaReporters earlier reported that on Christmas Day, December 25, 2025, President Donald Trump said the U.S. carried out what he described as “numerous precise strikes” against terrorists in northwest Nigeria, claiming they were responsible for mass killings of Christians.

Trump said the operation was conducted under his authority as Commander-in-Chief and targeted ISIS-linked fighters operating in parts of Nigeria that have suffered years of violence and insecurity.

According to Trump, the militants had been “viciously killing, primarily innocent Christians, at levels not seen for many years, and even centuries.” He added that he had previously warned the groups to stop the killings or face consequences.

The Nigerian government later confirmed, through the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, that strikes had occurred in parts of northern Nigeria.

Tambuwal assured residents of Sokoto South constituency of his direct engagement with security officials.

“I wish to assure the people of Sokoto South that I am in active talks with relevant security authorities to obtain full details and ensure that all necessary safeguards are upheld,” he said.

The senator emphasized that counterterrorism operations are aimed strictly at criminal and terrorist elements, not innocent civilians.

He noted, “It is important to reassure the public that counterterrorism operations are targeted at criminal and terrorist elements who threaten our collective safety, and not at innocent civilians who are themselves victims of insecurity.”

“The protection of civilian lives remains paramount and remains central to all legitimate security operations,” he said.

Commending the armed forces and security agencies, Tambuwal said, “I commend the courage and professionalism of our military and security forces, who continue to work tirelessly, often in collaboration with international partners, to confront terrorism and banditry under extremely challenging conditions.”

“Their sacrifice and commitment to restoring peace and stability deserve our full support and cooperation,” he said.

He also called on local stakeholders to support security efforts by avoiding misinformation.

“I also call on community leaders, traditional institutions, and residents to continue working closely with security agencies by sharing credible information and resisting misinformation that could heighten fear or tension,” he said.

Tambuwal urged unity and vigilance, saying, “Together, through unity, vigilance, and support for lawful security efforts, we will overcome the forces of terror and secure lasting peace for Sokoto State and Nigeria at large.”