The Nigerian military has revealed that a joint operation involving Nigerian troops and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) killed more than 20 Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters during fresh air strikes in Metele, Borno State.
Gatekeepers News reports that according to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), the coordinated strikes targeted terrorist hideouts after intelligence reports detected the movement and gathering of insurgents in the area. The military described the operation as part of intensified efforts to dismantle terrorist networks operating in Nigeria’s north-east region.
Major General Samaila Uba, director of defence information, said the latest offensive followed the recent killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, identified as a top ISIS commander. He added that the operation was aimed at denying terrorists safe havens and weakening their ability to launch attacks.
AFRICOM also confirmed the strikes, saying no Nigerian or American personnel were injured during the mission. Reports indicate the operation took place near the Lake Chad region, a known stronghold of ISWAP fighters.
The latest assault highlights growing military cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in the fight against insurgency in the north-east, where Boko Haram and ISWAP attacks have persisted for years.
