The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), in collaboration with the United States Africa Command (US AFRICOM), has intensified coordinated military operations against ISIS-linked terrorists in Nigeria’s North-East, killing more than 20 fighters during fresh air strikes in the general area of Metele, Borno State.
The latest offensive, according to the military high command, was carried out following intelligence reports on the convergence and movement of terrorist elements within the area.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the DHQ disclosed that multiple precision air strikes were successfully executed, resulting in the elimination of several ISIS/ISWAP fighters and the disruption of their activities.
The military said the operation forms part of sustained efforts aimed at dismantling terrorist networks, degrading their fighting capabilities and denying insurgents safe havens across the country.
The DHQ further noted that the latest strikes followed the recent neutralisation of notorious ISIS commander, Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, stressing that ongoing offensives were yielding significant results in the fight against terrorism in the North-East.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to aggressively defend the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the nation,” the statement read.
It added that terrorists threatening the peace, safety and stability of the country would continue to be pursued relentlessly.
“There will be no safe haven for all terrorists anywhere in Nigeria,” the military declared.
The renewed operations underscored growing military cooperation between Nigeria and international partners in the campaign against insurgency and violent extremism in the region.
