The Nigerian Government has confirmed that the object responsible for explosions and property damage in Offa, Kwara State, was debris from precision-guided munitions used during a joint Nigeria–United States military operation against ISIS terrorists in Sokoto State.
The announcement followed public alarm after explosions on Christmas night damaged homes, shops, and a hotel in Offa.
In a statement, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said debris from the operation also fell in Jabo, Tambuwal LGA, Sokoto State. The strikes targeted two ISIS enclaves in the Bauni Forest axis of Tangaza LGA, Sokoto, following approval by President Bola Tinubu.
“The Federal Government, in close coordination with the US, has successfully conducted precision strikes against two major ISIS terrorist enclaves in Bauni Forest, Tangaza LGA”, the statement said.
Intelligence reports confirmed the locations were used by foreign ISIS elements infiltrating Nigeria from the Sahel region, in collaboration with local affiliates, to plan attacks.
The strikes, conducted between 12:12 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. on December 26, 2025, involved 16 GPS-guided munitions deployed from MQ-9 Reaper UAVs launched from maritime platforms in the Gulf of Guinea.
“Debris from the operation fell in Jabo, Sokoto, and Offa, Kwara, near a hotel. No civilian casualties were recorded, and authorities secured the areas promptly”, the statement added.
Security sources had earlier reported that missile components caused the damage in Offa. Residents were thrown into panic after explosions hit two locations, including the Eid praying ground and Solid Worth Hotel. Buildings were damaged, but no deaths occurred.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to national security.
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