Dare Babalola
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday announced that Nigerian troops, in collaboration with the United States Armed Forces, carried out a joint counterterrorism operation that led to the killing of a senior Islamic State commander, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, in the Lake Chad Basin.
In a statement he signed personally, Tinubu described the operation as a major success in the ongoing fight against terrorism, noting that several lieutenants linked to the terror group were also eliminated during the strike on the insurgent leader’s compound.
The President said the operation underscored the growing security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in tackling terrorism and other transnational threats.
“Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” the statement read.
“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 said preliminary intelligence reports confirmed the death of Al-Manuki, who had been on the wanted list of security agencies, 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,” he stated.
The President expressed appreciation to the United States government for its support, specifically acknowledging the role of President Donald Trump in strengthening bilateral security cooperation.
“Nigeria appreciates this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives. I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort,” Tinubu added.
He also commended personnel of both countries involved in the mission for what he described as professionalism, bravery and commitment to restoring peace and security across the region.
“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 said.
