Premium News
The phrase ‘Santa Trump’ trended across social media in Nigeria on Boxing Day following confirmation that the United States military carried out precision airstrikes against Islamic State (ISIS/ISIL) camps in northwest Nigeria on Christmas Day.
The strikes targeted terrorist enclaves in Sokoto and were announced by US President Donald Trump, who said the operation was in retaliation for the vicious killing of innocent Christians by extremist groups operating in the region.
According to the US Africa Command, the airstrikes were conducted in coordination with Nigerian security authorities, with preliminary assessments indicating that several terrorists were killed and no civilian casualties recorded.
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also confirmed the joint operation, describing it as part of broader counter-terrorism cooperation between both countries aimed at degrading insurgent networks in northern Nigeria.
The timing of the strikes on Christmas Day triggered widespread reactions on social media, where Nigerian users coined the phrase “Santa Trump” in satirical references to the US president delivering a security intervention during the festive season. The trend gained momentum into Boxing Day, reflecting public frustration over persistent insecurity in parts of the country.
Analysts, however, noted that violence in northern Nigeria is driven by a complex mix of terrorism, banditry and communal conflicts.
While ISIS-linked factions have carried out attacks in the region, victims have included both Christians and Muslims depending on location.
Trump had previously raised concerns about attacks on religious communities in Nigeria, designating the country a nation of particular concern over religious freedom issues and warning of possible action if violence continued.
Mainstream media coverage of the development focused largely on the security and diplomatic implications of the US military action rather than the social media trend.
The airstrikes mark a notable instance of direct US military involvement in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, underscoring renewed international engagement as the country continues to grapple with insecurity in several regions.
