The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), in collaboration with Nigerian security forces, has carried out additional airstrikes targeting Islamic State fighters in northeastern Nigeria.
The operation followed the recent killing of ISIS commander, Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, who was reportedly eliminated alongside several of his fighters on Friday.
In a statement, AFRICOM confirmed that no American or Nigerian personnel were injured during the operation.
The Defence Headquarters said the strikes led to the death of more than 20 ISIS/ISWAP fighters.
Director of Defence Information, Samaila Uba, disclosed that the airstrikes targeted insurgent hideouts in the Metele area of northern Borno State, an area frequently linked to terrorist activities.
According to the military, the operation was launched based on intelligence reports indicating the movement and gathering of terrorist elements within the area.
The Defence Headquarters explained that the latest assault forms part of ongoing counterterrorism operations in the North-East aimed at dismantling insurgent networks and denying them operational bases.
The military reiterated its commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty and maintaining pressure on terrorist groups operating within Nigeria.
Authorities also stressed that insurgents would continue to face coordinated military action until their activities are completely neutralised.
The recent operation followed an earlier joint announcement by President Bola Tinubu and US President Donald Trump regarding coordinated efforts that led to the elimination of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki.
