Nigeria-U.S. Operation Eliminates Key ISWAP Leader

On May 15, 2026, a joint counterterrorism operation by Nigeria and the United States resulted in the elimination of Abu Bilal al-Minuki, considered the second-in-command of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The operation took place in Borno State and was described as a significant blow to global terrorism.

U.S. President Donald Trump commended the American forces and the Nigerian Armed Forces for executing a meticulous plan to eliminate al-Minuki, who had been actively involved in terrorist activities.

President Bola Tinubu expressed gratitude for the partnership with the U.S. in combating terrorism. U.S.

Africa Command General Dagvin R. Anderson praised Nigerian intelligence services for their role in tracking al-Minuki and his fighters.

The operation also led to the deaths of several of al-Minuki's lieutenants. Intelligence from the Nigerian Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the Department of State Services (DSS) was crucial in monitoring al-Minuki's movements around the Lake Chad region.