Key Points

• Nigerian military tracks terrorists fleeing after US air strikes

• Communities report unusual movement across northern regions

• Debate intensifies over deeper US security involvement

Nigeria’s military has stepped up surveillance on Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province fighters believed to be fleeing their hideouts after recent United States air strikes.

Senior defence officials confirmed on Monday that intelligence units are closely monitoring the movements of suspected terrorists following the operation, which US President Donald Trump announced on Christmas Day.

The Federal Government later acknowledged the strikes, describing them as part of ongoing counterterrorism cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.

Reports of Displacement Across Northern Communities

Since the strikes, local leaders have reported unusual movement by armed groups across parts of northern Nigeria.

In Benue State, the chairman of the traditional council in Gwer West Local Government Area, Daniel Abomtse, raised concerns over an influx of armed herders into nearby communities. Similar reports emerged from Tangaza, Gudu and parts of Illela in Sokoto State.

Community leaders, who spoke privately, said suspected fighters were breaking into smaller groups. Some were seen moving toward remote forest corridors, while others appeared to head toward border communities.

Defence Officials Confirm Surveillance Operations

Military sources said the movements were anticipated and already under watch.

A senior official confirmed that intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations are ongoing to track fleeing terrorists and prevent regrouping.

Another official said security agencies have real time information on the routes being used.

According to the military, the focus remains on containing spillover risks and denying the groups new safe havens.

Debate Grows Over Possible US Troop Presence

The strikes have also revived debate over whether Nigeria should allow American troops on its soil.

Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar recently said the Ministry of Defence would advise the government on possible next steps when asked about deeper US involvement.

Retired Brigadier General Peter Aro warned against deploying foreign soldiers, citing legal, diplomatic and social risks.

He argued that Nigeria already has enough ground forces and needs support mainly in air power and surveillance.

Mixed Views Among Retired Officers

Other retired officers expressed differing views. Brigadier General Bashir Adewinbi supported closer cooperation, saying joint security efforts were common globally and could improve results if properly defined.

Major General Dayo Olukoju urged caution, saying security decisions must avoid strategic mistakes.

Former Nigerian Air Force spokesman, Group Captain Sadique Shehu, opposed foreign troop deployment, stressing that Nigeria should control its own land operations.

Shehu also said there was no confirmed information yet on casualties from the US strikes.

US Lawmaker Defends Operation

In Washington, US Congressman Riley Moore defended the air strikes. He said the operation aimed to protect civilians, particularly Christians facing violence, and was carried out with Nigerian coordination.