Federal Republic of Nigeria
Following the elimination of leader of Islamic State of West Africa (ISWAP), Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok in an operation jointly carried out by Nigeria and United States of America Forces in the night of Friday May 15, 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has appreciated the President of United States of America, Donald Trump for providing the leadership and unwavering support to Nigeria on counterterrorism, just as he commended the troops involved in the operation for their professionalism and courage.
In a statement personally signed by the Nigerian president on Saturday morning, confirming the elimination of one of the most wanted terrorists in the world, Tinubu said: “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.
“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.”
On the operation that led to the elimination of Abu-Mainok and several of his lieutenants in a compound in The Lake Chad Basin, Tinubu added that the successful operation signified significant effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria.
“Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism.
“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.
“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,” Tinubu said.
