The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that a joint military operation involving Nigerian Armed Forces and United States forces has resulted in the elimination of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, a senior leader of ISIS.
The operation, described as highly coordinated and intelligence-driven, is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks operating in Nigeria and across the wider West African region.
DETAILS OF THE OPERATION
According to the Defence Headquarters, the mission was carried out through a precision strike supported by intelligence sharing between Nigerian and U.S. security agencies.
The operation reportedly targeted and eliminated Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, who was described as one of the most influential operational figures within ISIS global structure.
The President of the United States, Donald Trump, was the first to publicly announce the success of the operation, followed by confirmation from Nigerian authorities.
DHQ STATEMENT ON THE MISSION
In an official statement signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, the military described the operation as a major breakthrough in counter-terrorism efforts.
The statement noted that the mission was made possible through strengthened cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, particularly in intelligence sharing and coordinated military planning.
PROFILE OF ABU-BILAL AL-MINUKI
Military intelligence reports described Abu-Bilal al-Minuki as a high-ranking ISIS figure involved in:
- Strategic planning and coordination of terrorist operations
- Media and propaganda activities
- Weapons and explosive development guidance
- Expansion of ISIS affiliate networks across regions
He was also reported to have held senior positions within ISIS-linked structures in West Africa and the Sahel region.
LINK TO PAST TERROR NETWORKS
Intelligence further linked al-Minuki to broader extremist activities, including associations with:
- ISIS-West Africa operations
- Boko Haram leadership structures in earlier years
- Regional terrorist coordination across the Sahel
- The 2018 Dapchi schoolgirls’ abduction network (according to intelligence reports)
He was also believed to have played a role in facilitating fighter movements to North Africa between 2015 and 2016.
STRATEGIC IMPACT OF THE OPERATION
The Defence Headquarters stated that the elimination of al-Minuki represents a significant disruption to ISIS command structures.
According to the military, the operation:
- Weakens transnational terrorist coordination
- Disrupts extremist communication and logistics
- Reduces operational capabilities of ISIS affiliates in West Africa
NIGERIA–U.S. SECURITY COOPERATION
The DHQ emphasized that the success of the operation highlights the importance of continued collaboration between Nigeria and the United States.
This includes:
- Intelligence sharing
- Coordinated counter-terrorism planning
- Joint operational execution against extremist networks
MILITARY RESPONSE AND COMMITMENT
The Armed Forces of Nigeria praised the professionalism of all personnel involved in the mission.
They reaffirmed their commitment to:
- Dismantling terrorist infrastructure
- Protecting civilians
- Ensuring regional stability
- Strengthening counter-terrorism operations
Security authorities say operations of this nature will continue as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate extremist threats across Nigeria and neighboring regions.
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