Another breakthrough recorded in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism after a joint military operation involving Nigerian and United States forces reportedly eliminated a top ISIS commander in the Lake Chad Basin.
The operation, which was carried out overnight, targeted the hideout of Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok. Early reports confirmed that the notorious terrorist leader and several of his close lieutenants were killed during the strike.
Moreover, it is being described as one of the strongest recent blows against terrorist activities in the region.
The operation also highlights the growing military cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in tackling insecurity.
According to a statement released by the Presidency on Friday, the mission was successfully executed through close collaboration between both countries’ armed forces. The statement was personally signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” the President stated.
President Tinubu praised the courage and professionalism shown by the troops involved in the mission. He also appreciated the support provided by the United States government during the operation.
“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,” Tinubu said.
The President further confirmed that the wanted ISIS figure was successfully neutralized during the coordinated strike.
“Early assessments confirm the elimination of the wanted IS senior leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, along with several of his lieutenants, during a strike on his compound in the Lake Chad Basin,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian-US counterterrorism operation has been viewed as a major security victory.
Tinubu also expressed appreciation to the US President Donald Trump for supporting the ongoing security cooperation between both countries.
“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,” the President stated.
The President assured Nigerians that more operations would continue against terrorist enclaves nationwide.
“I commend the personnel involved on both sides for their professionalism and courage, and I look forward to more decisive strikes against all terrorist enclaves across the nation,” Tinubu concluded.
The Lake Chad Basin has remained a major hotspot for insurgent activities over the years.
