President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday confirmed the killing of senior ISIS leader Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki and declared that he expects more decisive military strikes against terrorist groups operating across the country.
Tinubu made this known in a statement issued from the State House, Abuja, following a joint counterterrorism operation carried out by Nigerian and United States forces in the Lake Chad Basin.
The President’s confirmation came hours after Donald Trump had earlier announced the killing of the terrorist leader on his Truth Social platform.
Trump had disclosed that American forces, working alongside the Nigerian Armed Forces, successfully carried out a coordinated operation that eliminated Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, described as ISIS’ second-in-command globally.
Confirming the development, Tinubu said the operation dealt a major blow to the Islamic State group and led to the death of several terrorists, including top commanders.
“Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” Tinubu stated.
“Our determined Nigerian Armed Forces, working closely with the Armed Forces of the United States, conducted a daring joint operation that dealt a heavy blow to the ranks of the Islamic State.”
According to the President, early assessments confirmed that Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, and several of his lieutenants were killed during the strike on their compound in the Lake Chad Basin.
Tinubu expressed appreciation to Trump and the United States government for supporting Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
“Nigeria appreciates this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives. I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort,” he said.
The President also commended military personnel from both countries for their professionalism and bravery during the operation.
He added that the Federal Government would continue to intensify military actions against terrorists and criminal groups threatening national security.
“I look forward to more decisive strikes against all terrorist enclaves across the nation,” Tinubu added.
Nigeria has continued to battle insurgency and terrorism in several parts of the country, particularly in the North-East and North-West regions.