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….Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, One of the World’s Most Wanted Terrorists, Neutralised in Precision Strike in Lake Chad Basin
In a major victory against global terrorism, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, working in close collaboration with United States forces, have neutralized Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, a senior ISIS leader described as the group’s second-in-command worldwide and one of the most active terrorists on the planet.
The operation, hailed as a meticulously planned and highly coordinated success, was announced on Friday by both Nigerian military authorities and US President Donald Trump.
President Trump, who personally directed the mission, broke the news on Truth Social, stating:
“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. 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. He will no longer terrorize the people of Africa, or help plan operations to target Americans.”
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters released a detailed press release confirming the elimination, signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information. The statement described al-Minuki as a critical node in ISIS’s global network, responsible for providing strategic guidance on media operations, economic warfare, and the development of weapons, explosives, and drones.
A Long History of Terror
Al-Minuki, also known by aliases such as Abubakar Mainok, had deep roots in Nigerian jihadist circles. Before pledging allegiance to ISIS in 2015, he was a prominent leader within Boko Haram. He later rose through the ranks of ISIS-West Africa Province (ISWAP), serving as the Nigeria-based al-Furqan GDP Office Emir in 2023. In that role, he oversaw operations across the Sahel and West Africa, including attacks on civilians, particularly ethnic and religious minority communities.
Intelligence reports link him to the 2018 Dapchi kidnapping of over 100 schoolgirls. Between 2015 and 2016, he facilitated the movement of foreign fighters to Libya to support ISIS operations in North Africa. As recently as February 2026, he was reportedly elevated to Head of the General Directorate of States, positioning him as the second most senior figure in the ISIS global hierarchy.
The US State Department had designated him a global terrorist in 2023 for his role in directing operations and funding for ISIS affiliates worldwide.
Significance of the Operation
The strike occurred in a compound in the Lake Chad Basin, a region long plagued by ISIS and Boko Haram-linked insurgencies. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu also confirmed the operation, noting that several of al-Minuki’s lieutenants were killed alongside him.
The joint US-Nigeria effort underscores a strengthened bilateral partnership in counterterrorism, built on enhanced intelligence sharing and coordinated military action. Nigerian authorities emphasized that the success demonstrates the country’s resolve to dismantle terrorist networks and protect civilians across the Lake Chad Basin, Sahel, and beyond.
Major General Samaila Uba stated: “This successful operation demonstrates Nigeria’s unwavering resolve to confront terrorism and deny extremist groups the ability to threaten national, regional and international security.” He commended the gallantry of all personnel involved and appreciated the continued support from US forces.
Broader Implications
Analysts view the elimination of al-Minuki as a significant blow to ISIS’s ability to coordinate operations across Africa and globally. His expertise in media propaganda, financing, and emerging threats like drone technology made him a uniquely dangerous figure.
This operation comes amid heightened US engagement in the Sahel region, where jihadist groups have expanded their influence. President Trump’s announcement highlights the effectiveness of targeted, intelligence-driven strikes in partnership with local forces.
As counterterrorism efforts continue, both nations have pledged to maintain pressure on remaining ISIS networks. The Armed Forces of Nigeria reiterated their commitment to ongoing operations aimed at ensuring lasting peace and stability in the region.
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