By The daily torch media
Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced that Nigerian troops, working in collaboration with the United States Armed Forces, carried out a joint counterterrorism operation that led to the killing of a senior Islamic State commander, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, in the Lake Chad Basin.
In a statement personally signed on Saturday, the President described the operation as a major breakthrough in the ongoing fight against terrorism, adding that several lieutenants linked to the terror group were also eliminated during the strike on the insurgent leader’s compound.
According to Tinubu, the operation highlighted the growing security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in addressing terrorism and other transnational threats.
“Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” the statement read.
“Our determined Nigerian Armed Forces, working closely with the Armed Forces of the United States, conducted a daring joint operation that dealt a heavy blow to the ranks of the Islamic State.”
The President disclosed that preliminary intelligence reports confirmed the death of Al-Manuki, who had reportedly been on the wanted list of security agencies, alongside several of his close associates.
“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,” he stated.
Tinubu also expressed appreciation to the United States government for its support, specifically acknowledging the role of Donald Trump in strengthening bilateral security cooperation.
“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,” he added.
The President further commended military personnel from both countries involved in the mission for their professionalism, bravery, and commitment to restoring peace and security in the region.
“I commend the personnel involved on both sides for their professionalism and courage, and I look forward to more decisive strikes against all terrorist enclaves across the nation,” Tinubu said.
