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Senior ISIS leader Abu-Bilal al-Minuki killed in US-Nigeria joint operation in Lake Chad Basin
Nigeria's President Tinubu confirmed the killing of senior Islamic State leader Abu-Bilal al-Minuki in a joint operation with the United States. The operation, reportedly announced earlier by US President Donald Trump, targeted al-Minuki's compound in the Lake Chad Basin and killed several lieutenants. The broader context includes IS activity in the Sahel and West Africa and prior US-Nigeria security cooperation.
Why It Matters
The strike disrupts IS global and regional networks and highlights intensified security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States against extremist groups.
Timeline
7 Events
Senior ISIS leader Abu-Bilal al-Minuki killed in Lake Chad Basin joint operation
May 16, 2026
Nigeria's President Tinubu confirmed the killing of senior Islamic State leader Abu-Bilal al-Minuki in a joint operation with the United States, along with several lieutenants, during a strike on his compound in the Lake Chad Basin. The operation had been first announced by US President Donald Trump.
Last Christmas joint airstrike in Sokoto state
December 25, 2025
US and Nigeria carried out a joint airstrike in Nigeria's Sokoto state targeting IS-linked groups.
Abu-Bilal al-Minuki designated SDGT by US
2023
Abu-Bilal al-Minuki was designated a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by the United States.
Killing of IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi
2019
IS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was killed, marking a significant setback for IS.
Dapchi schoolgirls kidnapping
2018
In 2018, more than 100 girls from a boarding school in north-eastern Nigeria were taken by militants linked to IS (Boko Haram).
Boko Haram pledges allegiance to Islamic State
2015
Boko Haram pledged allegiance to Islamic State after what was believed to be the then-leader Abubakar Shekau posted an audio statement in 2015.
Boko Haram begins campaign in northern Nigeria
2009
Boko Haram began its military campaign to impose Islamic rule in northern Nigeria.