Trump hails “highly complex” operation as major blow to ISIS network in West Africa

US President Donald Trump has announced that a joint military operation by American and Nigerian forces has eliminated Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as the global second-in-command of the Islamic State (ISIS).

Trump said the mission was “highly complex” and executed with precision, driven by detailed intelligence tracking the ISIS leader’s movements across Africa. He commended both US and Nigerian forces for what he called a successful and strategic operation.

Al-Minuki, reportedly a Nigerian national, had been under US sanctions since 2023 for his alleged role in coordinating ISIS-linked activities and terror operations in West Africa.

Authorities have not disclosed the exact location or full details of the strike, but the development underscores deepening military collaboration between Nigeria and the United States in tackling terrorism across the region.

Nigeria has long faced persistent threats from extremist groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP, which continue to carry out attacks, kidnappings, and destabilizing activities.

It was noted that the removal of al-Minuki marks a significant setback for ISIS operations in Africa, with global reactions describing the strike as a major counterterrorism breakthrough.