President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the successful elimination of a senior Islamic State commander, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, during a joint counterterrorism operation carried out by Nigerian and United States forces in the Lake Chad Basin.
In a statement issued from the State House on Friday, President Tinubu described the overnight operation as a “significant example of effective collaboration” between both countries in the fight against terrorism.
According to the President, the Nigerian Armed Forces, working closely with the Armed Forces of the United States, carried out a coordinated strike on the terrorist leader’s compound, leading to the death of Al-Manuki and several of his lieutenants.
“Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” Tinubu said.
“Our determined Nigerian Armed Forces, working closely with the Armed Forces of the United States, conducted a daring joint operation that dealt a heavy blow to the ranks of the Islamic State.”
The President noted that early assessments confirmed the elimination of the wanted IS senior leader during the operation in the Lake Chad Basin, an area long associated with insurgent activities and cross-border terrorism.
Tinubu expressed appreciation to the United States for its partnership in advancing shared security objectives, while also acknowledging the support of former US President Donald Trump.
“Nigeria appreciates this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives. I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort,” the statement read.
The Nigerian leader further praised military personnel from both nations for their courage and professionalism during the operation.
“I commend the personnel involved on both sides for their professionalism and courage, and I look forward to more decisive strikes against all terrorist enclaves across the nation,” Tinubu added.
The operation marks one of the latest coordinated efforts by Nigerian security forces and international allies to weaken terrorist networks operating within the Lake Chad region.