US President Donald Trump has announced that Abu Bilal al-Minuki, described as the second-in-command of ISIS globally, has been eliminated.
The operation was carried out jointly by US forces and the Nigerian military. The announcement was made following Trump’s return from an official visit to China.
Trump stated that the mission was carefully planned and executed with precision. He credited both American and Nigerian forces for their coordination.
Details of the Joint Military Operation
According to Trump, the operation targeted one of the most active terrorist figures globally. He said the mission was conducted “at my direction” by US forces alongside Nigeria’s armed forces.
He added that the strike successfully removed the militant leader from the battlefield. The operation was described as complex and highly coordinated.
Trump also said Abu Bilal al-Minuki had been hiding in Africa before being tracked down. He claimed intelligence sources provided continuous updates on his movements.
Statement from US Leadership
In his public remarks, Trump said:
“Tonight, at my direction, brave American forces and the Armed Forces of Nigeria flawlessly executed a meticulously planned and very complex mission to eliminate the most active terrorist in the world from the battlefield.”
He further stated:
“Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, second in command of ISIS globally, thought he could hide in Africa, but little did he know we had sources who kept us informed on what he was doing,”
Trump also acknowledged cooperation from Nigeria in carrying out the operation. He thanked the Nigerian government for its role in the mission.
Nigeria Confirms Joint Operation
Nigeria’s government later confirmed the killing of Abu Bilal al-Minuki. The announcement was made jointly by the country’s leadership and military officials.
President Bola Tinubu confirmed that Nigerian forces worked closely with US troops. He described the mission as a significant success against ISIS-linked networks.
He stated that Nigerian forces carried out a “daring joint operation” with US support. The operation reportedly dealt a major blow to extremist elements in the region.
Military Assessment of the Target
Nigeria’s defence forces identified Abu Bilal al-Minuki as a senior ISIS leader. He was described as one of the most active militant figures globally.
Officials said his elimination weakened operational capabilities within ISIS-linked structures. However, no additional operational details were released.
Broader Security Context in West Africa
The operation comes amid ongoing security challenges in West Africa. Militancy and extremist groups continue to operate in parts of the region.
Nigeria has previously faced scrutiny and international concern over security issues. The government has consistently denied allegations of religious persecution within the country.
The US has also conducted previous strikes targeting militant positions in northwestern Nigeria. These operations were linked to broader counterterrorism efforts.
Conclusion
The reported killing of ISIS deputy Abu Bilal al-Minuki marks a significant development in joint US–Nigeria counterterrorism efforts.
Both governments have confirmed cooperation in the operation. Authorities say the mission targeted a high-value militant figure in Africa’s ongoing security landscape.
