BY. MARTIN EZE
Nigeria says it has recorded a major counterterrorism success following a coordinated overnight military operation with the United States that reportedly resulted in the killing of a senior Islamic State commander and several of his key associates in the Lake Chad Basin.
In a statement issued from Aso Villa, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced that Nigerian troops, working alongside United States forces, carried out what he described as a high-risk joint mission targeting a strategic militant location.
According to the President, early intelligence assessments indicate that the operation led to the elimination of Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, identified as a wanted senior leader within the Islamic State network, alongside several lieutenants during an attack on his compound in the Lake Chad Basin region.
Tinubu described the operation as a major demonstration of international security cooperation and praised both countries for their coordination in confronting extremist threats.
“Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” the President stated.
He added: “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 further expressed appreciation for support from the administration of Donald Trump, saying: “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.”
Tinubu also praised personnel involved in the operation, noting: “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.”
The development comes amid continuing military efforts to weaken insurgent and extremist networks operating in the Lake Chad region, an area spanning parts of Nigeria and neighboring countries that has remained a hotspot for armed groups for more than a decade.
Security analysts are likely to view the operation as a symbolic and strategic breakthrough if independently confirmed by military authorities.
The reported removal of a senior commander could disrupt operational planning, recruitment structures and command chains within militant circles, at least in the short term.
However, experts also warn that such targeted strikes often trigger attempts at regrouping or retaliatory activity by surviving cells. Counterterrorism campaigns in the region have historically required sustained intelligence gathering, regional coordination and long-term stabilization efforts beyond battlefield victories.
As of the time of filing this report, further operational details, casualty figures and independent verification from United States military authorities had yet to be publicly released. Early assessments remain subject to official confirmation as authorities continue post-operation evaluations.
