AFRICOM and Nigerian Military Claim to Have Killed Over 200 Boko Haram and ISIS Members

Abuja – The United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) and the Nigerian military have stated that they jointly carried out operations targeting Boko Haram and ISIS groups operating in northeastern Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of over 200 members of these groups.

AFRICOM released a statement on its X platform indicating that these operations are part of efforts to weaken groups affiliated with ISIS operating on the African continent.

“AFRICOM, strengthening its partnership with Nigeria, has conducted operations against ISIS fighters in northeastern Nigeria. These operations eliminated over 200 terrorists, including a senior leader named Abu Bilal al-Minuki,” the AFRICOM statement said.

Spokesperson for the Nigerian Defense Headquarters, Samaila Mohammed Uba, stated that the joint attacks have significantly weakened the capabilities of the terrorist groups, destroying bases, logistics centers, and hideouts used by the militants.

Uba also noted that the cooperation between the two sides has enhanced the capabilities of Nigerian forces in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, facilitating the targeting of key objectives.

Nigeria has faced battles and attacks by Boko Haram and ISIS West Africa (ISWAP) for over a decade, resulting in the deaths of tens of thousands and the displacement of millions, particularly in the regions of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe.

These operations come at a time when the United States is increasing its support for Nigerian forces, particularly in intelligence and military equipment, to bolster the fight against ISIS-affiliated groups operating in West Africa.

In January of this year, the United States announced plans to enhance intelligence sharing and support for air operations conducted by Nigerian forces in the northeastern and northwestern parts of the country.

Despite the strengthening security cooperation, political disputes remain between Washington and Abuja, following U.S. President Donald Trump's previous remarks about widespread killings targeting Christians in Nigeria, which Nigerian officials have strongly denied.

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, is significantly divided between the predominantly Muslim north and the predominantly Christian south, with the government often stating that security conflicts are rooted in terrorism and organized crime, rather than religious wars.

Officials from both sides have stated that joint operations will continue to strengthen regional security and counter the threat posed by Boko Haram and ISIS groups still operating in parts of Nigeria.