"At my direction, brave US forces, in coordination with the Nigerian military, successfully completed a complex, meticulously planned mission to eliminate Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the global deputy leader of the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS) organization," President Donald Trump stated on 15/5.

The US leader described al-Minuki as "the world's most active terrorist." Trump added, "Abu-Bilal al-Minuki thought he could hide in Africa, but he did not know that we have intelligence sources constantly updating us on his activities."

US soldiers participate in training with Nigerian troops in northern Jaji in 2/2018. Photo: US Army

President Trump affirmed that al-Minuki's elimination significantly diminished IS's global operational reach. He did not disclose details about the operation targeting al-Minuki or his specific hiding place.

President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian military confirmed the information today. "The Nigerian military collaborated closely with the US in a bold operation, striking a significant blow against IS," Tinubu stated.

The US sanctioned al-Minuki in 2023, designating him as a "global terrorist." The US Department of State at the time identified al-Minuki as a senior IS leader in the Sahel region, south of the Sahara Desert, and a member of the body responsible for guiding worldwide operations and funding.

Location of Nigeria and neighboring countries. Graphics: AFP

IS has not controlled any territory in Syria and Iraq since 2019, but many fighters remain active in the region. Additionally, the terrorist organization maintains a significant presence in several areas of West Africa.

The Nigerian military is conducting operations against armed groups, including the IS branch in Africa and Boko Haram. Since late last year, the Nigerian government has faced US accusations of insufficient efforts to counter extremist militants.

In 12/2025, the US coordinated airstrikes with Nigeria in Sokoto state, targeting IS positions there. The US has also deployed hundreds of troops to Nigeria to support and train the local military.

Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, AP, Reuters)