The Nigerian government has announced the successful elimination of a senior Islamic State commander, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, during a joint counterterrorism operation conducted by Nigerian and United States forces.
According to a statement issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday, the operation was carried out overnight in the Lake Chad Basin, targeting the terrorist leader’s compound.
President Tinubu described the mission as a “significant example of effective collaboration” between Nigeria and the United States in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
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Early assessments from the operation confirmed that Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki and several of his lieutenants were killed during the strike, dealing what the President described as a “heavy blow” to the Islamic State network operating within the region.
The President expressed appreciation to the United States government for its support, particularly commending U.S. President Donald Trump for his leadership and commitment to strengthening security cooperation with Nigeria.
Tinubu also praised the professionalism and bravery of the Nigerian Armed Forces and their American counterparts involved in the operation, while reaffirming his administration’s determination to sustain decisive offensives against terrorist enclaves across the country.
The statement was issued from the State House, Aso Villa, Abuja, on May 16, 2026.
