RismadarVoice Reporters, May 16, 2026
President Bola Tinubu has confirmed the killing of a senior Islamic State leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, during a joint military operation conducted by Nigerian and United States forces in the Lake Chad Basin.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the President described the mission as a major achievement in the ongoing fight against terrorism, noting that the operation reflected the growing security partnership between Nigeria and the United States.
According to Tinubu, the operation led to the elimination of the insurgent leader and several of his close associates during an assault on his hideout in the Lake Chad region. He commended the professionalism and bravery of military personnel involved in the mission and expressed appreciation to the United States government for its continued support.
The development comes amid intensified military operations targeting insurgent groups in the North-East and surrounding areas, with authorities expressing optimism that sustained collaboration would further weaken terrorist activities across the region.
