US and Nigerian Forces Kill ISIS Second-in-Command in Joint Operation
Former US President Donald Trump announced the successful elimination of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the global second-in-command of ISIS, in a joint military operation with Nigerian forces. The complex mission, conducted in Nigeria, relied on precise intelligence tracking to neutralize al-Minuki, who was described as a key strategist threatening African populations and American interests. This significant counter-terrorism milestone underscores strengthened US-Nigeria security cooperation and aims to severely diminish ISIS’s operational capabilities and leadership structure within West Africa and globally.
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Nigeria and US Conduct Joint Airstrikes Killing 20 ISIS Militants
Nigeria and the United States have executed joint airstrikes against Islamic State militants in northeast Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of at least 20 fighters. The US Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed the operation took place on Sunday, stating that intelligence verified the targets were ISIS militants and that no US or Nigerian forces were harmed. This action follows a significant joint operation two days earlier that killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the global second-in-command of the Islamic State group. The Nigerian Defence Headquarters described the recent strikes as a continuation of coordinated efforts against terrorist elements converging in the restive northeast region. The conflict has intensified as West Africa becomes a primary zone for extremist militancy, with IS activity reaching record levels in early 2026. Al-Minuki was a key figure responsible for strategic guidance on weapons manufacturing and financial operations. While the US has increased troop deployment to train Nigerian forces, concerns remain regarding potential retaliatory attacks by ISWAP following the high-profile elimination of their leader.
Latest NewsUS Lawmaker Riley Moore Warns Terrorists in Nigeria After Joint Strike Kills ISIS Commander
US Congressman Riley Moore has issued a stern warning to terrorists in Nigeria, urging them not to test President Donald Trump’s resolve following a joint US-Nigerian military operation. The precision strike, conducted in the Lake Chad Basin, resulted in the death of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as the global second-in-command of ISIS and a former prominent Boko Haram leader. Moore, a Republican member of the House Appropriations Committee, credited President Trump with personally ordering the operation and emphasizing his administration's focus on defending Christians facing persecution and genocide in north-eastern Nigeria. Moore stated that he had investigated the crisis personally after being tasked by the President, leading to intensified US engagement since Nigeria was designated a nation of particular concern in October 2025. Nigerian Defence Headquarters confirmed the meticulous nature of the strike, describing al-Minuki as a versatile commander responsible for weapons manufacturing and drone development. The incident highlights ongoing international efforts to combat Islamic radical terrorism in the region, with Moore asserting that those targeting innocent civilians will be hunted down and brought to justice.
Punch Newspapers - Latest NewsUS Military Conducts Additional Strikes Against ISIL Fighters in Nigeria
The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) confirmed it conducted additional air strikes against ISIL fighters in northeastern Nigeria on Sunday, in coordination with the Nigerian government. No US or Nigerian personnel were harmed during the operations. These strikes occurred just two days after US President Donald Trump and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu announced the joint killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the deputy leader of ISIL in West Africa. Al-Minuki, a former Boko Haram commander who oversaw operations for the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), was targeted in the Lake Chad Basin. Experts suggest his death creates a significant leadership vacuum within the terrorist group. The recent military actions align with the deployment of approximately 100 US soldiers to Nigeria for training and intelligence support, though Nigerian officials clarify that US troops do not engage in direct combat. This escalation follows previous US airstrikes in late 2025 and reflects ongoing tensions regarding security threats in the region, despite disagreements between the two governments over the characterization of religious violence in Nigeria.
Al Jazeera – Breaking News, World News and Video from Al JazeeraUS Launches Fresh Airstrikes Against Islamic State in Northeast Nigeria
The U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) announced it conducted fresh airstrikes against Islamic State targets in northeastern Nigeria, coordinated with the Nigerian government. The operation resulted in no casualties among U.S. or Nigerian forces. These strikes follow a joint mission earlier in the week that reportedly killed Abu Bakr al-Mainuki, a senior leader of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). President Donald Trump confirmed al-Mainuki’s death via social media, identifying him as a key figure in the group’s leadership, media, and financial operations. Although some analysts dispute claims that al-Mainuki was second-in-command globally, he was designated a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the U.S. State Department in 2023. This military cooperation marks a significant shift in U.S.-Nigeria relations, which had deteriorated previously due to diplomatic tensions over human rights accusations. Analysts note that this active operational partnership, moving beyond advisory roles, demonstrates increased capacity to combat extremist groups in the Lake Chad Basin, a region where local forces have historically struggled against insurgents like Boko Haram and ISWAP.
The Independent WorldUS Conducts Additional Airstrikes Against IS Militants in Nigeria
The US Africa Command (AFRICOM) has confirmed the execution of additional air strikes against Islamic State (ISIS) militants in north-eastern Nigeria. These operations were conducted on Sunday in close coordination with the Nigerian government. According to a press release issued by AFRICOM, intelligence assessments verified that the targets were indeed ISIS militants, and no US or Nigerian personnel suffered harm during the attacks. The command emphasized that removing these terrorists reduces the group's ability to plan attacks threatening US and partner security. This announcement follows recent claims by US President Donald Trump regarding the elimination of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as the group's second-in-command. Trump stated that al-Minuki was killed in hiding in Africa, a claim later corroborated by the Nigerian army, which specified the operation occurred at a compound in Metele within the Lake Chad Basin. AFRICOM also released footage of the recent strikes on social media platform X, reaffirming its commitment to supporting partners in defeating shared security threats through specialized US capabilities.
Just InNigeria and US Forces Kill Over 20 ISWAP Fighters in Joint Air Strikes
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) announced that joint operations between Nigerian troops and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) resulted in the deaths of over 20 Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters. The coordinated air strikes were executed in the Metele area of North-East Nigeria, following intelligence reports regarding the convergence and movement of terrorist elements in the region. Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, stated that these actions are part of sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist networks, deny insurgents safe havens, and prevent regrouping. The DHQ reaffirmed its commitment to defending national sovereignty and ensuring no safe haven exists for terrorists within Nigeria. This operation follows recent announcements by US President Donald Trump and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu regarding the successful elimination of Al-Minuki, a high-ranking ISIS leader described as the group's second-in-command globally. The joint counterterrorism efforts highlight continued international cooperation in combating insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin region, aiming to disrupt militant activities and enhance regional security stability through targeted military interventions.
Punch Newspapers - Latest NewsSuspected Islamist Attack on Nigerian Military School Kills 17 Police Trainees
At least 17 police trainees were killed in northeastern Nigeria after suspected Islamist militants launched a coordinated attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Yobe State. The assault, which occurred on Friday, targeted officers undergoing specialized operational training. Police spokesman Anthony Okon Placid confirmed the deaths and noted that several soldiers also died, though military casualty figures were not immediately released. This incident underscores the persistent security challenges in the region, where Nigeria has battled an Islamist insurgency for over 18 years, initially driven by Boko Haram and now intensified by its offshoot, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). In a significant concurrent development, U.S. President Donald Trump and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, a senior ISWAP commander and the second-in-command of ISIS globally. Al-Minuki was eliminated during a joint U.S.-Nigerian military operation in the Lake Chad Basin earlier on Saturday. The Nigerian government has established specialized training institutions to counter these terrorist threats, but attacks on security facilities remain a critical vulnerability in the ongoing conflict.
New York PostDeath of Senior IS Leader in Nigeria: Key Details on Abu-Bilal al-Minuki's Elimination
US and Nigerian military forces jointly killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the global second-in-command of the Islamic State group, in a remote village in northeastern Nigeria. Described as the world's most active terrorist, Al-Minuki was a Nigerian native from Borno State who previously led Boko Haram before pledging allegiance to IS in 2015. He was sanctioned by the US State Department in 2023 as a specially designated global terrorist for overseeing attacks across the Sahel and West Africa. The operation, characterized by Nigerian officials as a precise air-land mission without American ground troops, relied heavily on US intelligence, including satellite surveillance and phone tracking. Al-Minuki was located via his frequent use of a Thuraya satellite phone in Metele. The strike also eliminated at least 17 other militants, including drone instructors and wives of senior commanders. This event highlights continued counter-terrorism cooperation between Washington and Abuja, effectively removing a key figure responsible for recent attacks against Nigerian military and minority communities.
Latest News17 Nigerian Trainee Police Killed in Jihadist Attack on Military School
At least 17 police officers were killed in Nigeria’s northeast Yobe state after suspected Islamist militants launched a coordinated attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi. The victims were trainees undergoing specialized operational training when militants attacked the facility from multiple directions on Friday. While the police spokesman confirmed the deaths of the officers, he noted that several soldiers were also killed but did not provide specific military casualty figures. This incident occurs amidst an ongoing Islamist insurgency in the region that has persisted for over 18 years, initially driven by Boko Haram and later intensified by its offshoot, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). In a significant related development, US President Donald Trump and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu announced the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the global second-in-command of ISIS and a senior ISWAP commander. His death resulted from a joint operation by US and Nigerian forces in the Lake Chad Basin earlier on Saturday. The Nigerian government continues to utilize specialized military institutions to counter these persistent terrorist threats in the northeast.
India Today | Latest StoriesUS-Nigeria Joint Operation Kills Senior IS Leader in Nigeria
President Donald Trump announced that a collaborative military operation involving United States and Nigerian forces successfully resulted in the death of a senior leader belonging to the Islamic State (IS) group in Nigeria. This joint effort highlights ongoing international cooperation in counter-terrorism initiatives within the region. The operation targeted high-ranking militants associated with the Islamic State's West Africa Province, aiming to disrupt their command structure and operational capabilities. By eliminating a top leader, the forces intend to weaken the group's influence and reduce security threats in Nigeria and surrounding areas. The announcement underscores the continued commitment of the US government to support allied nations in combating extremist organizations. While specific details regarding the identity of the killed leader or the exact location of the strike were not provided in this brief report, the confirmation from the US President signifies a significant development in the regional fight against terrorism. This event reflects the strategic partnership between the US and Nigeria in addressing shared security challenges posed by insurgent groups operating in West Africa.
France 24 - International breaking news, top stories and headlinesJoint U.S.-Nigerian Strike Kills Senior IS Commander in Northeast Nigeria
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu confirmed that a joint U.S. and Nigerian military operation successfully targeted a major Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) compound in northeast Nigeria. The precision air-land strike, conducted early Saturday in the Metele area of Borno State near the Chad border, resulted in the death of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the second-in-command of the global Islamic State organization. Several top lieutenants were also killed during the raid, which utilized advanced drone intelligence and surveillance capabilities from both nations. The Nigerian Army described this as the most significant counter-terrorism outcome in the region since 2015, noting no friendly casualties. This operation highlights deepened bilateral security cooperation aimed at combating foreign-backed terrorist groups. The strike occurs amidst rising violence in the Lake Chad Basin, where ISWAP has intensified attacks using drones and improvised explosive devices. Recent UN reports indicate a shift of Islamic State operations to Africa, with Nigeria experiencing a 46% increase in terrorism-related deaths in 2025, underscoring the critical nature of this joint intervention against entrenched militant strongholds.
Eurasia ReviewTrump and Nigeria Claim Killing of Senior ISIS Leader in Joint Operation
U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as the second-in-command of ISIS globally, was killed in a joint military operation involving U.S. and Nigerian forces. Trump stated on Truth Social that the mission was meticulously planned and executed flawlessly under his direction, targeting what he called the most active terrorist in the world. He noted that intelligence sources had tracked al-Minuki's movements in Africa. Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu corroborated the report via a statement on X, confirming early assessments that al-Minuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, and several lieutenants were eliminated during a strike on a compound in the Lake Chad Basin. Tinubu praised the operation as a daring example of effective international collaboration against terrorism, stating it dealt a heavy blow to the Islamic State's ranks. The exact location of the operation was not disclosed by Trump, but the Lake Chad Basin region was specified by the Nigerian president as the site of the strike.
Daily TimesUS and Nigeria Confirm Killing of Senior Islamic State Leader Abu-Bilal al-Minuki
US President Donald Trump and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu have confirmed the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, a senior Islamic State (IS) leader described as the group's second-in-command and its most active terrorist. The elimination occurred during a joint precision air-land operation by US and Nigerian forces in the Lake Chad Basin, specifically within Borno State, Nigeria. Al-Minuki, who was under US sanctions since 2023, directed global IS operations, including weapons manufacturing, financial strategies, and hostage-taking plans. His death is viewed as a significant blow to IS infrastructure, removing a critical coordination node. This event coincides with a surge in IS activity in Africa, which reached 86 percent of global incidents in early 2026. While Nigerian authorities clarified that this killing is distinct from a previously misattributed death report in 2024, violence persists in the region, evidenced by a recent jihadist raid in Yobe State that killed 17 police officers. The operation underscores deepening US-Nigeria security cooperation amidst sustained counterinsurgency efforts against groups like ISWAP and Boko Haram.
Jamaica ObserverTrump Says Top ISIS Leader Killed in U.S.-Nigerian Mission
Former President Donald Trump announced that Abu Bilal al-Minuki, identified as the second-ranking leader of the Islamic State (ISIS), was killed during a joint military operation involving United States and Nigerian forces. According to two U.S. officials cited in the report, the successful mission took place on Friday night and featured a helicopter-borne assault carried out by commandos from both nations. This event highlights ongoing international counter-terrorism efforts aimed at dismantling the leadership structure of ISIS. The collaboration between U.S. and Nigerian troops underscores the strategic partnership in combating extremist groups in the region. The death of such a high-profile figure represents a significant blow to the organization's operational capabilities and command hierarchy. While the article is brief, it confirms the execution of the strike and the identity of the target, providing essential facts regarding this specific counter-terrorism achievement.
NYT > World NewsTrump Announces Killing of IS Leader in Joint US-Nigeria Operation
U.S. President Donald Trump announced that U.S. and Nigerian forces killed Abu Bakr al-Mainuki, a senior leader of the Islamic State group, during a joint mission in Nigeria. The operation, confirmed by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, took place in the Lake Chad Basin and resulted in the deaths of al-Mainuki and several lieutenants without any coalition casualties. Trump described al-Mainuki as the second-in-command of ISIS globally, responsible for organizing finance and plotting attacks against U.S. interests. Nigerian military officials termed the precision air-land operation the most significant counterterrorism success in the region since 2015. While U.S. defense officials supported the claim of al-Mainuki's high-ranking global status, some analysts note his role was primarily within the Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP). This event underscores the deepening security partnership between the U.S. and Nigeria, established after Trump previously threatened intervention over concerns regarding the targeting of Christians in the country. The kill occurs amidst intensified IS efforts in West Africa, with hundreds of attacks reported in the previous year.
global news canadaISIS Second-in-Command Killed by U.S. and Nigerian Forces
Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as the global second-in-command of the Islamic State (ISIS), was killed during a joint military operation conducted by United States and Nigerian forces. The operation took place in the northeastern region of Nigeria. This significant development was confirmed jointly by U.S. President Donald Trump and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The announcement highlights ongoing international counter-terrorism efforts in West Africa, specifically targeting high-ranking leadership within the ISIS network. The collaboration between U.S. and Nigerian military units underscores the strategic partnership aimed at destabilizing terrorist organizations operating in the Lake Chad basin and surrounding areas. While the article is brief, it provides key details regarding the identity of the target, the nature of the operation, and the official confirmation from head-of-state level authorities, marking a notable event in global security news.
CBC | Top Stories NewsNigeria Presidency Confirms ISWAP Commander Al-Manuki Killed in Joint US Operation
The Nigerian Presidency has officially confirmed the death of Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, a senior commander of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), following a joint military operation with the United States. Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga clarified that earlier reports linking Al-Manuki to a 2024 strike were due to mistaken identity, asserting that intelligence now confirms the previous target was misattributed. The successful operation, announced by US President Donald Trump, involved months of surveillance and intelligence gathering starting in late 2025. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth identified Al-Manuki as a key figure overseeing ISIS operations in the Sahel. Despite public skepticism rooted in past false declarations regarding Boko Haram leaders, authorities state they are 100% certain of this confirmation. President Bola Tinubu praised the collaboration as a model for counterterrorism partnerships. The operation marks a significant blow to ISWAP, with Al-Manuki designated as a global terrorist by the US State Department since 2023.
Punch Newspapers - Latest NewsTrump Announces Killing of ISIS Second-in-Command by U.S. and Nigerian Forces
President Donald Trump announced that joint operations by U.S. and Nigerian military forces resulted in the death of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the second-in-command of ISIS globally. Trump described al-Minuki as the "most active terrorist in the world" and stated that his elimination significantly diminishes the group's global operational capabilities. The operation took place in Africa, specifically targeting a compound in the Lake Chad Basin. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu confirmed the strike, praising the effective collaboration between the two nations in combating terrorism. Tinubu noted that al-Minuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, was killed alongside several lieutenants. This event follows increased security and intelligence cooperation between the U.S. and Nigeria, including a previous military strike in December and the deployment of specialist trainers. Nigeria has been engaged in a long-standing conflict with Islamic insurgent groups like Boko Haram and ISIS affiliates in its northern regions, where ethnic violence and resource struggles also persist. The announcement highlights the ongoing international efforts to disrupt terrorist networks operating in West Africa.
National PostUS and Nigerian Forces Kill ISIS Second-in-Command in Lake Chad Basin Strike
American and Nigerian military forces successfully killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as the Islamic State’s director of global operations and second-in-command, during a joint operation in the Lake Chad Basin. The strike, announced by former President Donald Trump and confirmed by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), also eliminated several senior ISIS lieutenants. This mission marks the most significant U.S. military engagement in Nigeria since December, reflecting an escalated campaign against extremist groups in the region. AFRICOM described al-Minuki, also known as Abubakar Maniok, as the most active terrorist globally, responsible for planning attacks and financial operations. The operation follows increased U.S. involvement in Nigeria, including the deployment of approximately 100 troops in February for training and neutralization missions. This event occurs amidst broader U.S. counterterrorism efforts in Africa, including recent air campaigns against ISIS affiliates in Somalia. The joint action underscores strengthened military collaboration between the United States and Nigeria to combat cross-border terrorism and enhance regional security readiness.
Task & PurposeNigeria and US Confirm Killing of ISIL’s West Africa Commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and former US President Donald Trump announced the death of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, a key leader of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and described as ISIL’s second-in-command. Al-Minuki was killed during a joint precision air-land operation conducted by Nigerian and US forces in Metele, Borno State, within the Lake Chad Basin. The strike, executed between midnight and 4 am, also eliminated several of his lieutenants. Al-Minuki, formerly a prominent Boko Haram figure, had been under US sanctions since 2023 for coordinating media operations, economic warfare, and attacks across the Sahel, including the 2018 Dapchi schoolgirl kidnapping. While security officials hail the elimination of this critical coordination node, experts caution that ISWAP’s decentralized structure and reliance on Nigeria’s lucrative ransom economy may allow the group to recover quickly. Analysts note that previous reports of al-Minuki’s death in 2024 were premature, suggesting that while operational disruptions are likely, the strategic impact may be limited without broader governance and economic reforms in the region.
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