By Kingston Magare
Nigeria Army Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said about 175 Islamic State terrorists were eliminated on in various raids following the counterterrorism operations by a joint team the United States and Nigerian military.
According to DHQ, the assault on the terror gang in the Northeast have continued to record significant successes against ISIS and ISWAP elements operating in the region.
“The Defence Headquarters wishes to announce major successes in continuing counterterrorism operations in close coordination with the United States Africa Command against ISIS terrorists in North-East Nigeria,” said a statement released by Director of Defence Information, Maj.-Gen Samaila Uba.
“It will be recalled that the joint strikes started a few days ago. As of May 19, 2026, assessments indicate that 175 ISIS militants have been eliminated from the battlefield.
“The joint strikes have resulted in the destruction of ISIS checkpoints, weapons caches, logistical hubs, military equipment, and financial networks used to sustain terrorist operations.”
Meanwhile the US Embassy in Nigeria has urged its staff and American citizens over airstrikes against ISIS in North-East Nigeria.
“In light of the U.S.-Nigeria military action on May 16, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria informs U.S. citizens that U.S. Embassy and Consulate personnel have been reminded to exercise personal awareness and to consider limiting unnecessary travel,” the security advisory stated.
It added, “The U.S. Mission in Nigeria reminds U.S. citizens to maintain a high level of personal awareness, avoid predictable routines, and take general security precautions.”
On Friday, President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. military, in collaboration with Nigerian forces, eliminated Mr Al-Minuki.
Mr Al-Mainuki, 44, is a Nigerian born in Mainok, Borno. The U.S. designated him a specially designated global terrorist on June 8, 2023.
Nigeria soldiers taking position against gunmen.