By Ogochukwu Isioma
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced the successful elimination of a senior Islamic State commander, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, during a joint counterterrorism operation carried out by Nigerian and United States forces in the Lake Chad Basin.
In a statement he personally signed, Tinubu described the overnight mission as a major breakthrough in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
“Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” the President said.
According to the statement, the operation was jointly executed by the Nigerian Armed Forces and the United States military.
“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 stated.
The President disclosed that preliminary intelligence assessments confirmed the death of the wanted terrorist leader, also known as Abu-Mainok, alongside several of his close associates.
“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.”
President Tinubu praised the collaboration between both countries, describing it as a reflection of their shared commitment to tackling insecurity and violent extremism.
“Nigeria appreciates this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives,” he said.
The President also expressed gratitude to former US President Donald Trump for what he described as unwavering support in the counterterrorism effort.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort,” Tinubu added.
He further commended military personnel involved in the mission for their courage and professionalism, while pledging continued offensives against terrorist strongholds across the country.
“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,” the President stated.
