The Federal Government has announced the killing of Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, identified as the second-in-command of ISIS, during a joint military operation conducted by Nigerian forces and the United States Africa Command in the Lake Chad region.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the operation was executed after what he described as “meticulous planning and successful execution” by the armed forces of both countries.
Ebienfa disclosed that the slain terrorist commander was allegedly responsible for several recent attacks on military formations in Nigeria’s North-East region, adding that his elimination marks a significant breakthrough in ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
The Ministry commended the collaboration between Nigeria and the United States in tackling terrorism and restoring security within the region.
The statement also conveyed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued commitment to national security and efforts aimed at safeguarding the country from terrorist threats.
It further praised the Government of the United States for its partnership and support to Nigeria in the fight against insurgency and violent extremism.
The operation is expected to boost ongoing military offensives against terrorist groups operating around the Lake Chad Basin and the wider North-East corridor.
