The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has released video footage showing a joint military operation in northeastern Nigeria that reportedly resulted in the death of senior Islamic State commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki alongside several other ISIS leaders.
According to a statement issued on Saturday, the operation was carried out on May 16, 2026, with approval from the United States President and the Secretary of War, in collaboration with the Nigerian government.
AFRICOM disclosed that its early assessment confirmed the deaths of multiple terrorists, including al-Minuki, who was identified as the director of global operations for ISIS. The agency also confirmed that no American personnel were injured during the mission.
The command explained that the strike targeted a major ISIS stronghold in northeastern Nigeria and described the mission as a successful coordinated effort between U.S. and Nigerian military forces.
Speaking on the development, U.S. Air Force General Dagvin Anderson praised the cooperation between both countries, saying the mission demonstrated the effectiveness of their growing military partnership.
He stated that the operation, conducted alongside the Nigerian Armed Forces, led to the elimination of al-Minuki and other high-ranking ISIS operatives. Anderson noted that the success of the mission was achieved through months of planning and coordination between both nations.
He added that both countries remain committed to confronting terrorist threats and protecting their national interests.
AFRICOM further revealed that al-Minuki was deeply involved in ISIS global activities, including media operations, financing, weapons development, explosives production, drone manufacturing, attack planning and hostage operations.
Earlier, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the mission as a bold joint military operation that dealt a major blow to ISIS activities in the region.
