The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the killing of Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, a senior leader of the Islamic State (ISIS), describing him as a global terrorist. In a statement signed by Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with United States forces, conducted a meticulously planned and highly coordinated counterterrorism operation that resulted in the elimination of Al-Minuki.
Role and Impact of Al-Minuki
According to the statement, Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki was a key operational and strategic figure within ISIS, providing guidance to ISIS entities outside Nigeria on media operations, economic warfare, and the development and manufacturing of weapons, explosives, and drones. His death removes a critical node through which ISIS coordinated and directed operations across different regions of the world.
Intelligence indicates that as recently as February 2026, Al-Minuki may have been elevated to the position of Head of the General Directorate of States, making him the second most senior leader within the ISIS global hierarchy. Prior to this, in 2023, he served as the Nigeria-based al-Furqan GDP Office Emir, overseeing ISIS-linked operations across the Sahel and West Africa, including attacks against civilians, particularly ethnic and religious minority communities.
Longstanding Terrorist Ties
The terrorist leader maintained longstanding operational ties with ISIS-West Africa and was linked to the 2018 Dapchi kidnapping of over 100 schoolgirls. Intelligence records further show that between March 2015 and early 2016, he facilitated the movement of fighters to Libya in support of ISIS operations in North Africa. Before pledging allegiance to ISIS in 2015, Al-Minuki was also recognized as a prominent leader within Boko Haram.
Significance of the Operation
The Armed Forces of Nigeria reiterated that this successful operation demonstrates Nigeria's unwavering resolve to confront terrorism and deny extremist groups the ability to threaten national, regional, and international security. The operation equally underscores the importance of Nigeria-United States collaboration, intelligence sharing, and coordinated military action in defeating transnational terrorist networks.
The Defence Headquarters commended the gallantry, professionalism, and dedication of all personnel involved in the operation and appreciated the continued partnership and support of United States forces in the collective fight against terrorism. The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain steadfast in ongoing operations aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure, protecting civilians, and ensuring lasting peace and stability across the nation and the wider region.
