Nigerian, US Troops Kill Senior Islamic State Commander In Lake Chad
Hussaini Ibrahim 
KANO, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu says Nigerian and United States troops have carried out a joint counterterrorism operation that killed senior Islamic State commander Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, during a strike in the Lake Chad Basin.
The operation marks one of the latest military collaborations between Nigeria and the United States aimed at dismantling terrorist networks operating across the North-East and the wider Lake Chad region.
Tinubu disclosed the development in a statement issued from the State House in Abuja on Saturday, describing the operation as a significant breakthrough in the fight against terrorism.
According to the President, the overnight mission was conducted by the Nigerian Armed Forces in collaboration with the United States Armed Forces.
“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.
He said the operation demonstrated the growing security cooperation between both countries in tackling terrorism and violent extremism.
“Nigeria appreciates this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives,” the President added.
Tinubu also thanked Donald Trump for supporting the operation.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort,” the statement said.
The President further commended military personnel from both countries for what he described as professionalism and courage during the operation.
“I look forward to more decisive strikes against all terrorist enclaves across the nation,” Tinubu stated.
The Lake Chad Basin has remained a major hotspot for insurgency and extremist violence, with regional and international forces intensifying operations against terrorist groups in recent years.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
