What to know about joint US-Nigeria operation that killed a senior militant leader
A joint U.S. and Nigerian operation has successfully killed a senior Islamic State leader in Nigeria. The operation targeted Abu Bakr al-Mainuki, a key figure in the Islamic State West Africa Province. This mission marks a significant development in U.S.-Nigeria military cooperation following a period of strained relations.
- ▪President Donald Trump announced the operation that killed Abu Bakr al-Mainuki, a top Islamic State leader in Nigeria.
- ▪The operation took place in the Lake Chad Basin, a stronghold for Boko Haram and ISWAP.
- ▪Al-Mainuki was considered a key operational figure within the Islamic State and had been designated a global terrorist by the U.S. in 2023.
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ABC NewsLiveVideoShowsGood Morning AmericaShopGMAInterest Successfully AddedWe'll notify you here with news aboutTurn on desktop notifications for breaking stories about interest? OffOnStream onWhat to know about joint US-Nigeria operation that killed a senior militant leaderPresident Donald Trump says a joint U.S. and Nigerian operation has killed a top Islamic State leader in NigeriaByOPE ADETAYO Associated PressMay 16, 2026, 8:39 AM1:10FILE -Nigerian President Bola Tinubu speaks to the media ahead of his meeting with Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer inside 10 Downing Street in London, Thursday, March 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung, Pool, File)The Associated PressLAGOS, Nigeria -- President Donald Trump said that a joint operation by U.S.
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