Slain ISIS commander linked to 2018 Dapchi schoolgirls' kidnapping – DHQ

The Armed Forces of Nigeria, working with U.S. forces, eliminated senior ISIS commander Abu‑Bilal Al‑Minuki in a joint counter‑terrorism operation.

Maj‑Gen. Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, announced the operation on Saturday in Abuja.

He said the mission was carefully planned and carried out using improved intelligence sharing under the Nigeria‑U.S. security partnership.

Uba called Al‑Minuki a high‑value target and one of ISIS’s most active operatives.

He said the operation represents a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria, the Lake Chad Basin, and the broader Sahel.

“His neutralisation has disrupted a key terrorist network that posed serious threats to Nigeria and regional stability,” he said.

Uba added that Al‑Minuki had a strategic and operational role in ISIS, offering guidance on media operations, economic warfare, and the development of weapons, explosives, and drones.

He said intelligence showed the leader had recently been promoted to a top position in ISIS’s global hierarchy.

“His elimination removes a critical link through which ISIS coordinate activities across multiple regions,” he noted.

The spokesman also revealed that Al‑Minuki had long ties to ISIS‑West Africa and was linked to several attacks on civilians and vulnerable communities.

He noted that the leader was connected to the 2018 Dapchi schoolgirls’ kidnapping and had helped move fighters to Libya between 2015 and 2016.

Uba added that before joining ISIS, Al‑Minuki was a prominent Boko Haram member.

He reiterated the Nigerian Armed Forces’ commitment to continuing aggressive operations against terrorist groups and dismantling their networks.

“The success of this operation underscores the importance of international collaboration, intelligence sharing and joint military efforts in tackling transnational terrorism,” he said.

Uba praised the professionalism and bravery of the troops involved and thanked U.S. forces for their ongoing support.

He assured that the military would continue to protect civilians and maintain peace and stability throughout the country and region.

(NAN)

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