US, Nigerian Forces El!minate More Than 175 ISIS Terrorists In Coordinated Strikes
US, Nigerian Forces Eliminate More Than 175 ISIS Terrorists In Coordinated Strikes
The joint operations, carried out under ongoing security cooperation between both countries, were described as part of sustained efforts to degrade terrorist networks in the Lake Chad Basin region.
The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has announced that coordinated counterterrorism operations involving the Nigerian armed forces led to the killing of more than 175 Islamic State (ISIS)-linked terrorists in Nigeria’s North-East between May 16 and May 18, 2026.
The joint operations, carried out under ongoing security cooperation between both countries, were described as part of sustained efforts to degrade terrorist networks in the Lake Chad Basin region.
It was noted that the military collaboration is aimed at strengthening counterinsurgency operations and improving regional stability across Nigeria’s North-East theatre.
According to AFRICOM, the strikes highlight the continued importance of US-Nigeria defence partnership in confronting extremist groups operating in the region.
The command said the operation demonstrates improved coordination and sustained joint action against terrorist threats.
In a statement, AFRICOM said, “In coordination with the Nigerian Armed Forces, our counterterrorism efforts from May 16–18, 2026, eliminated more than 175 ISIS terrorists in Northeastern Nigeria.”
The command further stressed the strategic value of the partnership between both countries, adding, “This operation underscores the exceptional value of the U.S.-Nigeria partnership and was made possible through the cooperation and coordination of our forces in recent months.”
“Make no mistake, our two nations will relentlessly pursue and neutralize terrorist threats and are committed to protecting our people and interests.”
On the Nigerian side, the Defence Headquarters also confirmed the joint operations and described them as part of ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorist elements in the North-East.
The Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the success of the operation reflects the armed forces’ continued offensive posture against insurgents.
He stated, “The joint strikes have further reinforced what the Armed Forces of Nigeria have consistently done over the years — hunt down and kill terrorists anywhere they are in Nigeria. The joint operations will continue to hunt down and destroy those who threaten our nation and regional stability.”
The development has been seen in some quarters as an escalation in coordinated multinational efforts against ISIS-affiliated fighters in the region, where terrorist groups continue to exploit difficult terrain and cross-border vulnerabilities.
The operation is expected to further strengthen intelligence sharing and joint military coordination between Nigeria and its international partners in ongoing counterterrorism campaigns.
Earlier in May, SaharaReporters reported that the Defence Headquarters, Abuja, confirmed the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as a senior ISIS commander and one of the world’s most active terrorists, during a joint counterterrorism operation carried out by Nigerian and United States forces.
In a statement issued by Major General Samaila Uba, the military said al-Minuki was linked to the infamous mass kidnapping of over 100 schoolgirls in Dapchi, Yobe State, including Leah Sharibu who is yet to be rescued.
SaharaReporters earlier reported that the United States President, Donald Trump, announced that the US and Nigerian forces jointly carried out a military operation that killed the top ISIS commander identified as Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, whom he described as the terrorist group’s second-in-command globally.
https://x.com/USAfricaCommand/status/2059300434313982084?s=20
