Reports that US president Donald Trump claimed to have ordered missile strikes against suspected terrorist camps in northern Nigeria have sparked fear and anxiety among residents in several communities.
The claims spread widely on social media during the Christmas holidays, prompting urgent reactions from local leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups. Many residents expressed worry that foreign military actions could escalate violence and draw their communities deeper into conflict.
Though Trump made comments about “numerous strikes” against extremists abroad, there has been no official confirmation from the Nigerian government of US missile attacks on Nigerian soil. Security analysts said the circulating reports were speculative and urged the public to wait for verified statements from government or defence authorities.
In Kaduna State, traders said customers avoided markets on Boxing Day after seeing posts alleging fresh bombardments in remote areas. “People fear new strikes,” said one shop owner in Zaria. “We don’t know what is true, so many rumours make us anxious.”
In Kano, community leaders urged calm. “We understand the fear, but we must rely on facts from security agencies,” said a local chief. “We do not want panic or unnecessary displacement.”
Civil society organisations also criticised the spread of unverified information. A rights advocate said misinformation during festive periods often heightens tension and disrupts social order.
Meanwhile, residents in parts of Borno and Yobe urged government clarity. “We need peace, not fear,” one resident said. “If there are foreign operations, authorities must tell us what is happening so we can know how to stay safe.”
Security sources have said there is ongoing cooperation between Nigerian forces and international partners against insurgent groups, but they have neither confirmed nor denied specific missile strikes. Government statements are expected in the coming days to clear up the confusion.
