May 27, 2026 | Security / International News | By SUNTV Global Channel Correspondent
Joint military operations involving United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) and the Nigerian Armed Forces have reportedly resulted in the elimination of more than 175 ISIS-linked terrorists in Nigeria’s North-East between May 16 and May 18, 2026.
The coordinated strikes were carried out under ongoing defence cooperation between both countries, targeting terrorist networks operating within the Lake Chad Basin region.
According to AFRICOM, the operation is part of sustained efforts to degrade extremist groups and strengthen regional stability through improved intelligence sharing and joint military action.
In an official statement, AFRICOM confirmed the success of the mission, stating that the coordinated counterterrorism operations led to the neutralisation of over 175 ISIS terrorists within the specified period.
The command further emphasized that the operation reflects the continued strength of US–Nigeria security cooperation in addressing evolving terrorist threats across the region.
Nigerian Defence Headquarters also confirmed the joint strikes, describing them as part of ongoing military efforts to eliminate insurgent elements in the North-East theatre of operations.
The Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, noted that the success of the operation demonstrates the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s sustained offensive posture against terrorist groups.
He stated that the military will continue to pursue and dismantle all networks threatening national security and regional stability, adding that joint operations with international partners remain crucial to ongoing counterinsurgency efforts.
Security analysts say the development highlights an escalation in multinational collaboration against ISIS-affiliated fighters, who continue to exploit difficult terrain and cross-border vulnerabilities in the Lake Chad region.
Earlier in the month, defence authorities confirmed the killing of a senior ISIS commander, Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, in a separate joint operation involving Nigerian and US forces, further intensifying pressure on extremist networks operating in the region.
The latest strikes are expected to strengthen intelligence coordination and reinforce ongoing counterterrorism campaigns across Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
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