The United States Africa Command, AFRICOM, has released footage from a military operation that reportedly led to the killing of top ISIS commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki in northeastern Nigeria.
According to AFRICOM, the operation targeted a major presence of ISIS fighters in the region and eliminated several high-value terrorist figures, including al-Minuki, who was identified as the second-in-command of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria globally.
In a statement accompanying the released video, AFRICOM said: “Last night’s operation targeted a significant presence of ISIS fighters in Northeastern Nigeria, eliminating multiple high-value individuals, including Abu-Bilal al-Minuki.”
Earlier, Donald Trump announced that American forces worked alongside the Nigerian Armed Forces during the joint military operation.
Trump, speaking through his Truth Social account, said the mission followed extensive intelligence gathering and strategic coordination focused on tracking the activities of the ISIS leader within Africa.
Meanwhile, Bola Tinubu also confirmed the development and described the operation as a strong example of successful security collaboration between Nigeria and the United States in the fight against terrorism.
Tinubu said the operation highlighted the importance of international partnerships in tackling insurgency and terrorist threats across the region.
The development has since generated reactions globally, especially as security agencies continue efforts to weaken extremist groups operating across West Africa and the Lake Chad region.
Last night’s operation targeted a significant presence of ISIS fighters in Northeastern Nigeria eliminating multiple high value individuals including Abu-Bilal al-Minuki. pic.twitter.com/lNj4AMSITH
— U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) (@USAfricaCommand) May 16, 2026
