Nigeria-US Forces Eliminate 175 ISIS Terrorists in Northeast Operations

A significant blow has been dealt to the Islamic State's West Africa Province (ISWAP) and its affiliates in Northeast Nigeria, with joint operations by Nigerian forces and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) resulting in the elimination of 175 terrorists. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed the success of these coordinated strikes, which have systematically targeted the terrorist group's infrastructure, leadership, and operational networks across the region. This intensified campaign underscores the unwavering commitment of both Nigeria and its international partners to eradicating the menace of terrorism that has plagued the region for years.

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As of 19 May 2026, assessments indicate that 175 ISIS terrorists have been eliminated from the battlefield.

The impact of these operations extends beyond the sheer number of terrorists neutralized. Critical ISIS assets, including checkpoints, weapon caches, logistical hubs, and financial networks essential for sustaining their nefarious activities, have been dismantled. The elimination of key figures, such as Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as a globally significant ISIS operative responsible for coordinating financing, recruitment, and attack planning, represents a major disruption to the group's command structure and its ability to project threats internationally. The deaths of other senior commanders, including Abd-al Wahhab, Abu Musa al-Mangawi, and Abu al-Muthanna al-Muhajir, further cripple ISWAP's leadership and operational capacity.

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His death severely disrupts ISIS command, operational coordination and external attack networks.

This successful joint operation highlights the critical role of international cooperation in combating transnational terrorism. The collaboration between Nigerian forces and AFRICOM demonstrates a shared resolve to restore stability and security in the Lake Chad Basin and beyond. As President Bola Tinubu and US President Donald Trump confirmed the killing of Al-Minuki, it signals a united front against extremist ideologies and violent extremism. The DHQ's assurance that these operations will continue sends a clear message to terrorist elements: their attempts to destabilize Nigeria and the wider region will be met with decisive and sustained action. This is a moment of strategic success in the long fight against terrorism, offering a glimmer of hope for the affected communities.

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The joint operations will continue to hunt down and destroy those who threaten our nation and regional stability.