President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed the killing of Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, a senior leader of the Islamic State (ISIS), during a joint counterterrorism operation carried out by Nigerian and United States forces in the Lake Chad Basin.
In a statement issued from Aso Villa, Abuja, on May 16, 2026, President Tinubu described the operation as a major success in the ongoing fight against terrorism and a strong example of international security collaboration.
According to the president, the overnight operation was executed by the Nigerian Armed Forces in partnership with the Armed Forces of the United States, resulting in the elimination of Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, alongside several of his lieutenants.
“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 stated.
The president commended the professionalism and courage displayed by military personnel from both countries during the operation.
He also expressed appreciation to US President Donald Trump for supporting the joint counterterrorism efforts.
“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,” the statement added.
Tinubu further assured Nigerians that security forces would continue intensified operations against terrorist groups and criminal enclaves across the country.
“I look forward to more decisive strikes against all terrorist enclaves across the nation,” the president said.
The latest operation is being viewed as a significant development in regional and international efforts to weaken extremist networks operating within the Lake Chad Basin and surrounding areas.
