The Defence Headquarters on Tuesday disclosed that joint counterterrorism operations carried out by Nigerian troops and the United States Africa Command had resulted in the killing of 175 ISIS fighters in the North-East.
The military said the coordinated offensive targeted terrorist strongholds and operational networks linked to the Islamic State group across the region.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, the DHQ said the operations commenced a few days ago and had recorded significant successes.
“As of May 19, 2026, assessments indicate that 175 ISIS terrorists have been eliminated from the battlefield,” the statement said.
According to the military, the strikes also led to the destruction of terrorist checkpoints, weapons storage facilities, logistics hubs, combat equipment, and financial structures used to sustain insurgent activities.
The Defence Headquarters further confirmed the killing of several top ISIS and ISWAP commanders during the operations, including Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as one of the group’s most prominent global operatives.
The military said al-Minuki was responsible for coordinating terrorist financing, recruitment, logistics, and attacks targeting Nigerians and civilians in other parts of the world.
“It is believed that his elimination has significantly disrupted ISIS command structures, operational coordination, and external attack networks,” the DHQ stated.
Other insurgent leaders reportedly killed during the operations included Abd-al Wahhab, said to be in charge of coordinating attacks and propaganda activities; Abu Musa al-Mangawi; and Abu al-Muthanna al-Muhajir, identified as a senior media operative and close associate of al-Minuki.
Uba said the operation underscored the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to combating terrorism and restoring stability across affected areas.
“The joint operations will continue until those threatening national and regional security are completely neutralised,” he added.
Last Friday, Donald Trump and Bola Tinubu both confirmed the killing of al-Minuki during a joint counterterrorism mission involving Nigerian and US forces.
Trump reportedly described the slain insurgent leader as one of the world’s most active terrorists and claimed he served as ISIS’ second-in-command globally.
The latest announcement came days after the Defence Headquarters revealed that Nigerian troops, working alongside the United States Africa Command, killed over 20 ISWAP fighters during fresh air strikes in the North-East.