Tinubu Confirms Killing of ISIS Leader in Joint Nigeria-US Military Operation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed the killing of a senior Islamic State leader, Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, in a joint counterterrorism operation carried out by Nigerian and United States forces.

The development comes after United States President Donald Trump earlier announced the successful operation and commended the Nigerian government for its cooperation in the mission.

In a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the mission as a major milestone in the ongoing fight against terrorism and a clear demonstration of strong security collaboration between both nations.

According to the statement, the operation targeted the terrorist leader’s hideout in the Lake Chad Basin, where Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, was reportedly killed alongside several of his top lieutenants.

Tinubu said early intelligence reports confirmed that the operation dealt a major setback to the operations of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in the region.

“Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” the president 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 expressed Nigeria’s appreciation to the United States for its continued partnership in tackling security threats and acknowledged President Trump’s role in supporting the operation.

“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,” he added.

President Tinubu also praised members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and their US counterparts for what he described as their professionalism, bravery and commitment to combating terrorism.

He further expressed optimism that the successful operation would pave the way for more decisive military actions against terrorist groups operating across Nigeria and the wider Lake Chad region.

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