Several terrorist camps in Nigeria’s North-East were thrown into chaos after coordinated Nigeria-US strikes reportedly killed 175 ISIS-linked fighters.
The large-scale offensive, which targeted key terrorist camps and logistics networks, also led to the death of several top ISWAP commanders. Among them was Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, a senior operative allegedly linked to terrorist financing, recruitment, and attack coordination.
The operation has triggered fresh discussions about the growing military partnership between Nigeria and the United States in the fight against terrorism.
According to the Defence Headquarters, the attacks formed part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts aimed at dismantling insurgent structures operating within the North-East. The operation reportedly combined air assaults with coordinated ground offensives against several terrorist locations.
The operation targeted weapons storage facilities, checkpoints, supply routes, and financial hubs allegedly used by insurgents. Furthermore, military authorities stated that several strategic hideouts were destroyed during the mission.
Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, confirmed the development while addressing journalists on the outcome of the operation. He explained that the strikes dealt a heavy blow to the Islamic State West Africa Province, also known as ISWAP.
According to military authorities, other senior commanders killed during the operation included Abd-al Wahhab, Abu Musa al-Mangawi, and Abu al-Muthanna al-Muhajir.
The military said the commanders played major roles within the terrorist network. They were allegedly involved in propaganda coordination, media operations, logistics planning, and organizing attacks linked to ISIS activities in the region.
Furthermore, defence officials revealed that the elimination of the commanders disrupted communication channels and weakened external attack networks connected to the insurgent group.
The counterterrorism operation has also raised hopes among residents living in affected communities across the North-East. Many communities have battled years of deadly attacks, kidnappings, and destruction linked to insurgent activities.
Meanwhile, security patrols have reportedly been intensified in vulnerable areas to prevent possible retaliatory attacks by fleeing fighters.
The Armed Forces stressed that the campaign against terrorism remains ongoing. Authorities added that collaboration with international partners would continue in order to sustain pressure on armed groups threatening national security.
In addition, military officials reassured Nigerians that efforts are being made to restore peace and stability across troubled communities. They noted that dismantling terrorist cells remains a top security priority.
The latest operation comes at a time when regional forces continue to battle rising extremist threats across parts of West Africa.
