Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says joint counterterrorism airstrikes conducted with the United States Africa Command have killed 175 ISIS terrorists in the North-East, dealing a major blow to insurgent operations.
In a statement, Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the strikes targeted ISIS and its affiliate, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), destroying checkpoints, weapons stockpiles, logistics bases, military equipment and financial networks used to support terrorist activities.
The military also confirmed the killing of several senior terrorist figures, including Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as a key ISIS operative involved in financing, recruitment, logistics and planning attacks. According to the DHQ, his death significantly weakens ISIS command and operational coordination.
Other top commanders reportedly killed include Abd-al Wahhab, Abu Musa al-Mangawi and Abu al-Muthanna al-Muhajir, all linked to ISWAP operations and propaganda activities.
The DHQ said the success of the joint operation highlights Nigeria’s commitment to eliminating terrorism and maintaining regional security, adding that military offensives will continue against threats across the country.
