Emmanuel Akinwatu

The strikes occurred overnight on Friday morning local time in northwest Nigeria.

ISIS militants were targeted in the attacks, described as deadly by President Trump, but officials have given few details.

Trump said more strikes would follow.

Nigeria's government has come out in support of the operation.

Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuga said he spoke with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio shortly before the strikes, but has faced criticism and questions on whether Nigeria gave consent or was simply consulted.

Nigeria has faced pressure from US officials who claim Christians are facing a genocide from armed groups whose security experts say target both Christians and Muslims.

Emmanuel Akimotu, NPR News, Lagos.

Paul Beer has been in power since 1982 and could win another seven-year term that would extend his role to 50 years and until he's nearly 100.

Beer has run despite widespread calls to step down, only attending one campaign rally and continuing to spend extended periods away in Europe.

An AI-generated video of him, widely used by his campaign, has attracted further criticism.

Insecurity and high unemployment have been major issues in the Central African country, where the median age is 18 and 40% of people under 35 are unemployed.

Bia's main challenges are expected to be two former ministers who recently resigned from his government.

More than 8 million people are registered to cast ballots in a single round of voting.

Emmanuel Akimotu, NPR News.