Dalena Reporters l December 26, 2025
Former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has appealed for calm and restraint following recent U.S. counterterrorism strikes on militant targets in northwest Nigeria, stressing that coordinated action against extremist groups is essential to restoring security and protecting civilians. Tambuwal, who now serves as a federal lawmaker and senior member of the House of Representatives, addressed reporters in Abuja after widespread reactions to the Christmas Day military operations announced by U.S. President Donald Trump and conducted in cooperation with Nigerian authorities.
In his remarks, Tambuwal acknowledged the deep anxieties many Nigerians feel about foreign military involvement on Nigerian soil but argued that the coordination between Nigerian and U.S. forces reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s capacity to confront terrorism. He described the operations as part of a broader strategic framework agreed by both nations and emphasised that national sovereignty remains paramount even amid such cooperation.
Tambuwal urged citizens not to draw religious or ethnic conclusions from the strikes, reiterating that terrorism in Nigeria transcends faith lines and affects all communities. He called for unity and patience as security agencies “do what is necessary to protect lives and livelihoods,” while also advocating for enhanced support for internally displaced persons and communities impacted by militant attacks. Critics, however, have continued to debate the implications of foreign military action, with some voices warning that external involvement could complicate Nigeria’s internal security dynamics.
Tambuwal’s appeal underscores the urgency for careful navigation of Nigeria’s multifaceted security challenges and the need for broad public understanding as authorities pursue collaborative strategies against entrenched militant threats.