Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, second-in-command of the global Daesh group, was killed in a joint operation between US and Nigerian forces.
On Friday, US President
Donald Trump announced that American and Nigerian forces had successfully executed a mission to eliminate Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, the second-in-command of the global Daesh group.
The operation, meticulously planned and carried out with precision, resulted in the death of one of the world's most active terrorists.
Al-Minuki, who had been placed under US sanctions in 2023 for his ties to the Daesh group, was believed to be hiding in Africa, unaware that American sources were tracking his movements.
This development significantly diminishes Daesh's global operational capabilities, as Al-Minuki posed a major threat to both Africans and Americans.
President Trump expressed gratitude towards the Nigerian government for their partnership in this operation.
Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu and the country's military also confirmed the successful mission, describing it as a daring joint effort that dealt a significant blow to Daesh's ranks.
The Nigerian Armed Forces have been actively combating militancy, including regional offshoots of the Daesh organization and other Islamist groups such as Boko Haram.
This collaboration with the US marks a heightened efforts against these threats.
Since late 2025, the Nigerian government has faced pressure from the US for not doing enough to combat militant threats.
In response, the US has deployed hundreds of troops to Nigeria to support and train local forces.
Details regarding the form of attack that led to Al-Minuki's death, such as whether it involved air strikes or where the target was located, have not been disclosed.
Al-Minuki was designated by the US State Department as a 'global terrorist' in 2023, highlighting his significant role within Daesh's leadership structure.