The Armed Forces of Nigeria in Collaboration with United States forces has successfully conducted a meticulous planned and highly coordinated counterterrorism operations resulting in the elimination of Abu – Bilal al – Minuki, a senior ISIS leader and one of world’s most active terrorists.
An Official statement issued and signed on Saturday, 16 May 2026 by Major General Samaila Uba Director, Defence Information, revealed that the precision operation was the result of our recently formed US – Nigeria partnership and intelligence sharing efforts. Together, we have disrupted a violent terrorist network that endangered Nigerians and broader West African region. Our efforts represents a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and violent extremisism in Nigeria, the Sahel region and globally.
Abu Bilal al – Minuki was a key ISIS operational and strategic figure who provided guidance to ISIS entities outside Nigeria on matters relating to media operations, economic warfare and the development and manufacturing of weapons, explosives and drones. His death removes a critical node through what ISIS coordinated and directed operations across different regions of the world.
According to the statement, Intelligence further indicated that, as recently as February 2026, Minuki may have been elevated to the position of Head of States, placing him the ISIS second most senior leader within the ISIS global hierarchy.
Prior to this, Minuki served as the Nigeria – based al – Furqan GDP Official Emir, overseeing ISIS – linked operations across the Sahel and West Africa, including attacks against civilians, religious minority communities.
The terrorist leader also maintained longstanding operational ties with ISIS – West Africa and was linked to the 2018 Dapchi kidnapping of over 100 Schoolgirls. Intelligence records further show that between March 2015 and early 2016, he facilitated the movement of fighters from Libya in support of ISIS operations in North Africa. Before pledging allegiance to ISIS in 2025, Minuki was also recognised as a prominent leader within Boko Haram.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria reiterate that this successful operations demonstrates Nigeria’s unwavering resolve to confront terrorism and deny extremist groups the ability to threaten national, regional and international security.
The operation equally underscores the importance of our Nigeria – United States collaboration, intelligence sharing and coordinated military action in defeating trasitional terrorist networks.
The statement concluded that the Defence Headquarters commends the gallantry, professionalism and dedication of all personnel involved in the operation and appreciates the continued partnership and support of the United States forces in the collective fight against terrorism.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain steadfast in ongoing operations aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure, protecting civilians and ensuring lasting peace and stability across the nation and the wider region.
Source: Facebook / Defence Headquarters Nigeria – defenceinfo.ml.ng
