The Defence Headquarters has announced that ongoing joint counterterrorism operations between Nigerian troops and the United States Africa Command have resulted in the elimination of 175 ISIS terrorists, including a high-profile global operative, during coordinated strikes in North-East Nigeria.
Operational Update
Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, provided the update on Monday, May 19, 2026, stating that the coordinated air and ground offensives began several days ago as part of intensified efforts to dismantle terrorist networks operating in the region.
According to the statement, the operations specifically targeted terrorist enclaves, checkpoints, weapons caches, logistics hubs, and financial structures that sustain insurgent activities across parts of the North-East.
Elimination of Senior Commanders
The authorities confirmed that the operations also led to the killing of several senior commanders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), including Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, who is described as one of the most significant ISIS operatives globally. The military noted that al-Minuki played a crucial role in coordinating terrorist financing, recruitment, logistics, and attack planning for ISIS operations targeting Nigeria and other regions.
Other terrorist leaders neutralized during the operations include Abd-al Wahhab, identified as an ISWAP commander involved in coordinating attacks and propaganda activities; Abu Musa al-Mangawi, another senior ISWAP member; and Abu al-Muthanna al-Muhajir, said to be a senior media production manager and close associate of al-Minuki.
Impact on Terrorist Networks
The military high command stated that the deaths of these commanders have significantly disrupted ISIS operational coordination and external attack networks. It added that the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with international partners, will sustain ongoing operations aimed at dismantling terrorist cells and restoring stability in the region.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing and neutralizing all individuals and groups threatening national and regional security.
