The United States and Nigeria have carried out a major counterterrorism operation in northeastern Nigeria that officials say killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described by Washington as ISIS’s global second-in-command.
According to authorities, the overnight strike targeted a militant compound in the Lake Chad Basin, an area long affected by insurgent activity and extremist violence.
Officials say several senior militants linked to the extremist network were also killed during the coordinated operation involving U.S. and Nigerian forces.
Donald Trump described the mission as “meticulously planned,” praising the cooperation between American and Nigerian security forces.
Meanwhile, Bola Tinubu called the operation a major victory in the fight against terrorism and extremist groups operating across West Africa.
The region has faced years of insecurity linked to ISIS-affiliated militants and Boko Haram fighters, who continue to carry out attacks targeting civilians, military personnel, and infrastructure.
Security analysts say the operation represents a significant blow to extremist leadership networks in the region, though concerns remain over the long-term insurgency threat.
The strike also highlights continuing international counterterrorism cooperation aimed at preventing militant groups from expanding operations across the Sahel and Lake Chad region.
As security forces continue operations in the area, officials say efforts remain focused on dismantling extremist networks and restoring stability across affected communities.
