The United States and Nigerian armed forces have carried out coordinated airstrikes in northwestern Nigeria, reportedly killing several fighters linked to the Islamic State (ISIS), including Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as the group’s second-in-command globally.
The operation, conducted in Sokoto State, was announced by US President Donald Trump, who said the mission was executed jointly by American and Nigerian military forces.
According to the US Africa Command, the strikes were carried out in coordination with Nigerian authorities. A US official also confirmed that multiple targets were eliminated during the operation.
Speaking from his Mar-a-Lago residence, Trump disclosed details of the military action through a statement posted on his Truth Social platform. He described the mission as highly coordinated and praised both US and Nigerian forces for successfully carrying out the operation.
Trump stated that Abu-Bilal al-Minuki had allegedly been one of ISIS’ most active leaders and had continued operations from Africa while helping coordinate extremist activities. He said the militant leader believed he could remain hidden on the continent but was eventually tracked through intelligence sources.
The US President further thanked the Nigerian government for its cooperation and emphasized that the operation significantly weakens ISIS’ international network.
He also referenced previous warnings issued to extremist groups, stating that the US would continue taking decisive action against terrorists responsible for attacks and violence.
This marks another major military collaboration between both countries. Similar joint operations targeting terrorist elements reportedly took place in Sokoto on December 25, 2025.
Nigerian authorities explained that the strikes formed part of broader intelligence-sharing efforts and strategic security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States.
Nigeria continues to battle multiple security threats across different regions of the country. While insecurity has heavily affected northern communities, both Christian and Muslim populations have suffered attacks from armed groups and insurgent factions.
Security analysts believe the latest strikes may have targeted members of the Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP), also known locally as Lakurawa, a faction that has become increasingly active in northwestern states including Sokoto and Kebbi. The group has reportedly carried out deadly attacks on rural communities and security personnel in recent months.
Nigeria’s military had earlier stated that Lakurawa fighters originated from neighboring Niger and expanded activities in border communities following the 2023 military coup in the country, which weakened regional security cooperation.
Nigeria is also confronting threats from the Islamic State West Africa Province, an ISIS-linked faction operating mainly in the northeast, alongside remnants of Boko Haram.
The worsening security situation has attracted international concern. In November, more than 230 students and staff members were abducted from a Catholic boarding school in Niger State before they regained freedom in December.
Armed criminal groups and insurgents continue to target schools and communities across parts of Nigeria, often carrying out kidnappings for ransom and other violent attacks.
US, Nigerian Forces Kill ISIS Global Deputy in Joint Sokoto Airstrikes — Trump Announces Operation
