President Bola Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the growing security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States following a joint military operation that reportedly eliminated a senior Islamic State (ISIS) commander and several of his fighters in the Lake Chad Basin.
In a statement issued from the Presidential Villa, the President described the overnight operation as a major success in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
According to Tinubu, personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces worked closely with the United States military in carrying out the operation, which targeted a compound linked to the extremist group.
“Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” the President stated.
“Our determined Nigerian Armed Forces, working closely with the Armed Forces of the United States, conducted a daring joint operation that dealt a heavy blow to the ranks of the Islamic State.”
The President disclosed that preliminary assessments confirmed the killing of a wanted Islamic State leader identified as Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, during the strike.
“Early assessments confirm the elimination of the wanted IS senior leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, along with several of his lieutenants, during a strike on his compound in the Lake Chad Basin,” Tinubu said.
The Nigerian leader expressed appreciation to the United States for supporting Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts and strengthening bilateral security cooperation.
“Nigeria appreciates this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives. I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort,” he added.
Tinubu also commended security personnel from both countries for their professionalism and bravery during the operation.
“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,” the statement added.
The operation is seen as another major effort aimed at weakening terrorist networks operating within the Lake Chad Basin, an area that has witnessed years of insurgent activities linked to the Islamic State and other extremist groups.
