President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the joint counterterrorism operation carried out by Nigerian and United States forces which led to the killing of senior Islamic State leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok.
In a State House statement issued on Saturday, President Tinubu described the operation as a major example of effective collaboration between Nigeria and the United States in the fight against terrorism.
“Overnight, Nigeria and the United States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism,” the President stated.
Tinubu said the Nigerian Armed Forces, working closely with the United States Armed Forces, carried out a daring joint operation that dealt a heavy blow to the ranks of the Islamic State.
“Our determined Nigerian Armed Forces, working closely with the Armed Forces of the United States, conducted a daring joint operation that dealt a heavy blow to the ranks of the Islamic State,” he said.
According to the President, early assessments confirmed the elimination of Al-Manuki alongside several of his lieutenants during a strike on his compound within the Lake Chad Basin.
“Early assessments confirm the elimination of the wanted IS senior leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, along with several of his lieutenants, during a strike on his compound in the Lake Chad Basin,” the statement added.
President Tinubu expressed appreciation to the United States government for its partnership and support in advancing shared security objectives.
“Nigeria appreciates this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives,” he said.
The President also extended gratitude to President Donald Trump for his support and leadership in the operation.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort,” Tinubu stated.
He further commended security personnel from both countries for their professionalism and bravery during the operation.
“I commend the personnel involved on both sides for their professionalism and courage, and I look forward to more decisive strikes against all terrorist enclaves across the nation,” the President said.