Just In: US Launches Another Deadly Airstrike in Nigeria, Kills ISIS Deputy Leader — Trump
United States forces, in collaboration with Nigerian military authorities, have carried out coordinated airstrikes in Sokoto State.
The airstrikes reportedly killed several ISIS fighters, including Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as the terrorist group’s second-in-command globally.
US President Donald Trump announced the operation on Saturday through his Truth Social platform.
He stated that American and Nigerian forces executed a “meticulously planned and very complex mission” targeting the ISIS leader in Northwest Nigeria.
According to Trump, al-Minuki had been hiding in Africa while allegedly coordinating terrorist activities.
He said the elimination of the ISIS figure would significantly weaken the group’s global operations.
Trump also praised the Nigerian government for its partnership in the mission and reiterated his administration’s stance against radical Islamic terrorism.
The US Africa Command confirmed that the strikes were conducted in coordination with Nigerian authorities in Sokoto State.
A US official told Reuters that multiple targets were neutralised during the operation.
The development marks another joint security operation between both countries following similar strikes reportedly carried out in Sokoto on December 25, 2025.
Nigeria’s security challenges have continued to involve armed groups linked to the Islamic State, including the Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, and the Islamic State Sahel Province, ISSP, also known locally as Lakurawa.
Security analysts believe the latest operation likely targeted Lakurawa fighters, who have intensified attacks in Sokoto and Kebbi states in recent months.
The Nigerian military had earlier linked the rise of the Lakurawa group to instability in neighbouring Niger Republic after the 2023 military coup, which weakened regional security cooperation along the Nigeria-Niger border.
The latest strikes come amid growing international concern over insecurity in northern Nigeria, where armed gangs and insurgent groups have continued attacks on schools, communities, and security personnel.