Nigerian and U.S. forces have killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the second-in-command of ISIS worldwide, in a joint operation in the Lake Chad Basin.
The strike took place overnight in an area long known for extremist activity. Both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and U.S. President Donald J. Trump confirmed the mission early Saturday, saying it was carefully planned and carried out without a hitch.
Trump said al-Minuki had been hiding in a heavily fortified compound, believing he was safe in Africa. “He thought he could disappear here, but our people on the ground kept us informed,” “He won’t be planning attacks on Americans or spreading terror on this continent again. His removal is a major setback for ISIS.” Trump said.
Tinubu said the raid also killed several of al-Minuki’s senior commanders. Early reports from the ground show the mission hit its targets with precision. He thanked U.S. forces for their professionalism and said the operation proves what can be achieved when both countries work closely on security.
“Nigeria values this partnership with the United States in protecting our shared interests,” Tinubu said from Aso Villa. “I thank President Trump for his leadership and for standing with us in this fight.” He added that the strike is part of a renewed push to clear out terrorist hideouts across Nigeria and praised the courage of the troops involved.
For years, the Lake Chad Basin has given groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP room to regroup and move supplies across borders. Officials in Abuja and Washington say taking out a senior figure like al-Minuki will disrupt ISIS finances and communications far beyond West Africa.
Trump ended his statement by thanking Nigeria for its role and closed with “God bless America!”
Security experts say the operation sends a clear warning to extremist groups trying to expand in the region. With mop-up efforts still underway, the raid is already being seen as a turning point in the renewed cooperation between Nigeria and the United States on counter-terrorism.