Abu Bilal al-Minuki eliminated by Nigerian Forces, U.S. only provided intelligence — DHQ

The Defence Headquarters has clarified that no foreign military personnel took part in the operation that led to the killing of terrorist commander Abu Bilal al-Minuki, stressing that the mission was entirely executed by Nigerian forces.

The clarification was given by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, during a monitored television interview, where he detailed the circumstances surrounding the high-profile counterterrorism operation.

“Fully Nigerian-Executed Operation”

According to Onoja, while the United States provided intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and technical assistance, the kinetic aspect of the operation was carried out solely by Nigerian troops.

He described the mission as a “carefully coordinated” operation that successfully neutralised a high-value target without any casualties recorded on the Nigerian side.

The operation, he said, reflected improved coordination and intelligence-driven targeting within ongoing military efforts against terrorist networks across the country.

Maj.-Gen. Onoja also addressed earlier reports suggesting that Abu Bilal had been killed in a previous operation, stating that such claims were inaccurate.

READ ALSO: ISIS commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki linked to Dapchi school girls abduction killed in military operation

He explained that security agencies had spent months tracking the correct target through sustained intelligence gathering before launching the final operation that confirmed his elimination.

The Defence Headquarters maintained that the successful outcome underscored the importance of precision in counterterrorism efforts to avoid misinformation and ensure operational effectiveness.

Onoja urged Nigerians to support the military by providing credible intelligence that could aid ongoing operations against insurgents and criminal groups.

He also cautioned against actions that undermine security efforts, particularly the payment of ransom to kidnappers, warning that such practices indirectly finance and sustain criminal activity.

The Defence Headquarters reiterated its commitment to intensifying counterterrorism operations nationwide, while strengthening collaboration with both local communities and international partners in intelligence sharing.