United States President, Donald Trump, has disclosed that the American government coordinated Christmas Day air strikes in Sokoto against ISIS militants in collaboration with the Nigerian government, while also praising Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C.

Trump made both remarks on Thursday while addressing guests and participants at the annual faith-based gathering, which was attended by political and civic leaders from across the world.

Speaking on security cooperation with Nigeria, the U.S. president said the strikes were ordered to “decimate the ISIS terrorists who have been slaughtering Christians in that country by the thousands”.

Explaining his decision to authorise the operation on Christmas Day, Trump said the timing was deliberate and intended to send a strong message.

“On Christmas Day, in close coordination with the government of Nigeria, we worked with them, but they’ve got to get tougher,” he said.

“I ordered powerful air strikes to decimate the ISIS terrorists who have been slaughtering Christians in that country by the thousands. It’s not even believable.

“We hit them so hard they still don’t know what the hell happened. And we were going to do it on a different day. I said no, do it on Christmas. So they understand it.

“Remember, Christmas was when I ran in 2015. When I announced, I said we’re going to bring back Christmas because the word Christmas was almost gone and people didn’t use Christmas anymore.

“We brought back the word Christmas. They didn’t want to use it and we’re using it again.”

During the same event, Trump also praised Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, describing her as a “very respected woman”.

His comments highlighted Mrs. Tinubu’s influence and stature and drew applause from the audience.

In his address, he acknowledged her role as a pastor in one of Nigeria’s largest churches and referenced her pastoral background.

“We are honoured to be joined today by the First Lady of Nigeria, who also happens to serve as a Christian pastor at the largest church in Nigeria — a very respected woman. Thank you very much. It’s a great honour, a very respected person too,” he said.

The acknowledgement placed Mrs. Tinubu among prominent global faith leaders present at the event, which brings together political figures, clergy, and policymakers for prayers and reflections on leadership, governance, and national values.

The National Prayer Breakfast is an annual February event that convenes members of the U.S. Congress, religious leaders, and international guests.