Abu-Bilal al-Minuki: How we eliminated ISIS leader – Nigerian DHQ

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has confirmed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in partnership with United States forces, successfully executed a carefully orchestrated and highly coordinated counter-terrorism operation that led to the elimination of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, a senior leader of ISIS and one of the most active terrorists globally.

The President of the United States, Donald Trump, was the first to announce the successful operation against the terrorist leader.

The President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has also issued a statement affirming the attack.

The Defence Headquarters, in a statement signed by Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, stated, “The precision operation was the outcome of our newly established U.S.-Nigeria partnership and intelligence sharing initiatives.

“Together, we have disrupted a violent terrorist network that posed a threat to Nigeria and the wider West African region.

“Our efforts signify a significant advancement in the ongoing battle against terrorism and violent extremism in Nigeria, the Lake Chad Basin, the Sahel region, and on a global scale.

“Abu-Bilal al-Minuki was a pivotal operational and strategic figure within ISIS, providing guidance to ISIS affiliates outside Nigeria on issues related to media operations, economic warfare, and the development and production of weapons, explosives, and drones.

“His demise eliminates a crucial node through which ISIS coordinated and directed operations across various regions worldwide.

“Intelligence further suggests that, as recently as February 2026, Minuki may have been promoted to the role of Head of the General Directorate of States, making him the second most senior leader within the ISIS global hierarchy.

“Before this, Minuki held the position of Emir of the Nigeria-based al-Furqan GDP Office in 2023, overseeing ISIS-related operations throughout the Sahel and West Africa, including assaults on civilians, particularly targeting ethnic and religious minority communities,” he said.

The leader of the terrorist organisation has maintained long-standing operational connections with ISIS-West Africa and was associated with the 2018 Dapchi abduction of more than 100 schoolgirls.

It added, “Intelligence documents further indicate that from March 2015 to early 2016, he played a role in facilitating the transfer of fighters to Libya to support ISIS activities in North Africa. Prior to his allegiance to ISIS in 2015, Minuki was acknowledged as a significant leader within Boko Haram.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria emphasise that this successful operation exemplifies Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to combating terrorism and preventing extremist groups from posing threats to national, regional, and international security.

“This operation also highlights the significance of our collaboration with the United States, including intelligence sharing and coordinated military efforts to defeat transnational terrorist networks,” he added.

The Defence Headquarters praised the bravery, professionalism, and commitment of all personnel involved in the operation and expressed gratitude for the ongoing partnership and support from United States forces in the joint fight against terrorism.

The DHQ stated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain resolute in their ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist infrastructure, safeguard civilians, and ensure enduring peace and stability throughout the nation and the broader region.