AFRICOM has released striking thermal footage showing a successful precision strike in northeastern Nigeria that eliminated Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, the second-in-command of ISIS in the region and director of its global operations. The May 16, 2026 operation, conducted jointly by U.S. and Nigerian forces in Borno State’s Lake Chad Basin, destroyed a terrorist compound with multiple explosions. President Trump and Nigerian President Tinubu both confirmed the high-value target’s death along with several other senior ISIS figures.

This decisive action marks a significant blow to ISIS-linked networks, particularly ISWAP, which has been spreading terror and instability across West Africa and the Sahel. Al-Minuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, played a key role in directing attacks and coordinating ISIS activities throughout the region. The successful mission highlights the effectiveness of proactive counter-terrorism efforts and close cooperation with partner nations.