The former Director of Army Public Relations has described the killing of Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki as “an extraordinary milestone” in counter-terrorism efforts across Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin.
A joint military operation involving the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the United States military has neutralised the second-in-command of the Islamic State (ISIS) globally and a top commander of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), along with several other terrorists.
The precision air-land operation, conducted at Metele in Borno State under the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI in collaboration with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), marks what security analysts describe as ‘a potential turning point in Nigeria’s 15-year war against terrorism.’
In a statement issued to Voice of Nigeria on Sunday, General Usman said; “If sustained and properly consolidated, this unprecedented feat may well be remembered as one of the most consequential counter-terrorism successes in our national history.”
According to official sources, the operation was the culmination of painstaking intelligence gathering, surveillance, target acquisition, and operational planning.
No casualties or loss of assets were recorded on the Nigerian side, underscoring the professionalism of troops involved.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has since commended the Armed Forces and acknowledged the value of international collaboration.
The United States, President Donald Trump has also reportedly issued a commendation on the operation.
Praised the Courage
General Usman, who actively participated in counter-insurgency efforts during his service, praised the courage and sacrifice of troops operating under Operation HADIN KAI, while cautioning against complacency.
“History teaches us that terrorist groups are adaptive, opportunistic and often quick to regenerate leadership structures after suffering battlefield setbacks,” he warned.
He said; “The elimination of a major commander must be viewed as a strategic opportunity to intensify and consolidate gains, rather than a signal of mission accomplished.”
Deeper Collaboration
The retired General called for sustained follow-on operations across the Lake Chad Basin, Mandara Mountains, and deeper collaboration with neighbouring countries under the Multinational Joint Task Force framework.
General Usman also appealed to Nigerians to support security efforts through vigilance and community intelligence sharing, saying “Terrorists thrive on propaganda, misinformation and fear. Society must deny them these advantages.”
The elimination of Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki is seen as both a tactical victory and a morale booster for troops engaged in the decade-long insurgency that has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions across North-East Nigeria.
