AFRICOM Says Joint Operation With Nigeria Killed More Than 200 ISIS Fighters
By Ibrahim.Garba Sbuaibu
The U.S. military said Wednesday that joint counterterrorism operations conducted with Nigerian security forces in the country’s northeast killed more than 200 Islamic State fighters, including a senior commander identified as Abu-Bilal al-Minuki.
The U.S. Africa Command, or AFRICOM, said the operations were carried out in coordination with Nigerian forces as part of ongoing efforts to weaken the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and other extremist groups operating in the region.
In a statement on their X handle, AFRICOM said the targeted operations eliminated more than 200 militants and a senior ISIS commander. The command added that no U.S. or Nigerian personnel were injured during the missions.
The operations took place in northeastern Nigeria, where government troops have intensified military campaigns against insurgent groups linked to the Islamic State and other extremist organizations.
The Lake Chad region has remained a hotspot for militant activity despite years of military offensives by Nigeria and neighboring countries. Armed groups operating in the area have carried out attacks on civilians, security forces and local communities, causing widespread displacement and humanitarian challenges.
AFRICOM said the operation reflected continued security cooperation between the United States and Nigeria aimed at countering terrorism and improving regional stability.
Nigerian authorities have not released additional details on the operation or independently confirmed the casualty figures.