The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), in partnership with the Nigerian government, has executed additional military operations against ISIS-affiliated militants in northeastern Nigeria. This was disclosed in a statement released on Sunday, May 17, by AFRICOM Public Affairs, which indicated that the strikes targeted confirmed militant positions based on intelligence indicating terrorist activity in the region.
Intelligence Confirms ISIS Presence at Targeted Locations
AFRICOM stated that intelligence reports verified that the locations struck were occupied by ISIS militants. However, full battle damage assessments are still ongoing. The command emphasized that no U.S. or Nigerian personnel were harmed during the operation. “Intelligence confirmed the targets were ISIS militants. Complete assessments are ongoing. No U.S. or Nigerian forces were harmed,” the statement read.
Operation Aims to Weaken Terrorist Capability
The U.S. military command explained that this latest action is part of broader efforts to degrade the operational capacity of the terrorist group and prevent future attacks. It noted that eliminating these fighters reduces the group’s ability to coordinate attacks that threaten regional and international security. “The removal of these terrorists diminishes the group’s capacity to plan attacks that threaten the safety and security of the U.S. and our partners,” AFRICOM added.
Nigerian Military Confirms Continued Joint Operations
The Nigerian Defence Headquarters also confirmed the operation, stating that it was conducted in coordination with AFRICOM as part of sustained counter-terrorism efforts in the northeast, particularly around the Metele axis. In a statement signed by Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the military disclosed that over 20 ISIS/ISWAP fighters were neutralized during the airstrikes. “Following observed convergence and migration of terrorist elements, multiple air strikes were conducted resulting in the elimination of more than 20 ISIS/ISWAP fighters,” the statement read.
The military further noted that this operation follows the earlier neutralization of ISIS commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki and is part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks.
Military Vows Sustained Pressure on Insurgents
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating terrorist threats and maintaining national security, stressing that no safe haven will be allowed for insurgents in Nigeria. “The Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to aggressively defend the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the nation. Terrorists who threaten our citizens, communities and national stability will be located and defeated. There will be no safe haven for all terrorists anywhere in Nigeria,” the statement added.
