The Nigerian Military, in collaboration with the United States Africa Command, has reportedly killed Abu Bilal Al Minuki, identified as the second-in-command of ISIS, during a joint counterterrorism operation in the Lake Chad region.
The development was confirmed by Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja and signed by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
According to the statement, the operation followed what authorities described as careful planning and coordinated execution by security forces from both Nigeria and the United States.
The Ministry disclosed that Abu Bilal Al Minuki was allegedly linked to several recent attacks on military formations in Nigeria’s North-East region.
Officials said the operation highlighted the growing security partnership between Nigeria and the United States in tackling terrorism and armed insurgency across the region.
“The operation was carried out a few hours ago after meticulous planning and successful execution by the Armed Forces of the two countries,” the statement said.
The government also praised President Bola Tinubu for what it described as his continued commitment to national security and efforts aimed at strengthening counterterrorism operations.
The Ministry further commended the United States government for its support and cooperation in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against terrorism.
The Lake Chad region has remained a major hotspot for insurgent activities over the years, with security forces from Nigeria and neighbouring countries continuing joint operations against extremist groups operating within the area.