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The Presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria today confirmed the successful elimination of Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki (also known as Abu-Mainok or Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki), a senior commander of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and a high-ranking figure in the global ISIS network, during a joint counter-terrorism operation conducted by Nigerian and United States forces.
The operation, which took place overnight in the Lake Chad Basin, targeted Al-Manuki’s compound and resulted in the neutralization of the wanted terrorist leader along with several of his lieutenants and multiple combatants. No casualties were reported among the joint forces.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the mission as a “daring joint operation” that delivers a significant blow to ISIS-linked activities in the region. Early intelligence assessments have validated the success of the strike.
In a related development, the Presidency addressed and clarified earlier reports from 2024. The Defence Headquarters had previously announced the elimination of a figure linked to Al-Manuki’s name in operations around the Birnin Gwari axis. Security officials now confirm that this was a case of mistaken identity or misattribution amid the complexities of sustained counter-insurgency efforts.
Al-Manuki’s operational sphere did not extend to that theatre, and the latest intelligence definitively establishes his elimination in the recent Lake Chad Basin strike.
Al-Manuki, designated a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the United States in 2023, was reportedly a key operational mastermind overseeing ISIS activities across the Sahel and West Africa. He has been linked to high-profile attacks, including those targeting civilian communities.
President Donald Trump of the United States also announced the operation’s success, describing Al-Manuki as the “second-in-command of ISIS globally” and “the most active terrorist in the world,” whose removal represents a major strategic victory in the global fight against terrorism.
The Nigerian Government commends the professionalism and close coordination between the Nigerian Armed Forces under Operation Hadin Kai and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM). This collaboration underscores the strengthening of international partnerships in addressing transnational security threats.
This development is expected to significantly degrade ISIS/ISWAP capabilities in the Lake Chad region and beyond. Security operations will continue to ensure that remaining threats are neutralized, while efforts to stabilize affected communities and promote lasting peace remain a top priority.