By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed the killing of a senior Islamic State (IS) leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, in a joint counterterrorism operation by Nigerian and United States forces.
The overnight strike, carried out in the Lake Chad Basin, targeted the insurgent’s compound, where early assessments confirmed that Al-Manuki and several of his lieutenants were eliminated.
The operation, Tinubu said, was executed by the Nigerian Armed Forces in close coordination with the Armed Forces of the United States to advance shared security objectives and degrade terrorist networks.
In a State House statement issued on Saturday, 16 May 2026, from Aso Villa, Abuja, the President described the mission as “a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” adding that it dealt a heavy blow to the Islamic State’s ranks.
Accordingly, he said the neutralisation of Al-Manuki, a wanted IS commander, marks a critical step in weakening the group’s leadership structure in the Lake Chad Basin.
He further stressed that the success reflects strengthened bilateral cooperation, particularly in intelligence and joint operations.
Tinubu also expressed appreciation to the United States for its support, acknowledging the role of its leadership in the operation.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort,” he said.
The President commended personnel from both countries for their professionalism and courage, noting that such coordinated actions would continue nationwide.
“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,” Tinubu added.