***Thank US President Donald Trump
By Florencemary Nwabueze
President Bola Tinubu has confirmed on Saturday that Nigerian armed forces, in coordination with the United States military, have eliminated a senior Islamic State leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, during a joint operation in the Lake Chad Basin.
The Lake Chad Basin, which spans Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, has long been a hotbed for Islamist militant groups, including Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
Al-Manuki had been wanted by both Nigerian and international security agencies for his role in coordinating attacks and logistics for ISIS-affiliated cells in the region.
The operation targeted Al-Manuki, also known as Abu-Mainok, along with several of his lieutenants, in an overnight strike on his compound. Early assessments confirm the death of the wanted terrorist leader, according to a statement issued by the Nigerian presidency.
"Overnight, Nigeria and the Unjted States recorded a significant example of effective collaboration in the fight against terrorism," Tinubu said. "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."
President Tinubu extended his gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump but for his leadership and support in the effort. The president also commended personnel from both nations for their professionalism and courage.
"Nigeria appreciate this partnership with the United States in advancing our shared security objectives," Tinubu said. I extend my sincere gratitude to President Trump for his leadership and unwavering support in this effort."
"I commend the personnel involved on both sides for their professionalism and courage, and look forward to more decisive strikes against all terrorist enclaves across the nation." Tinubu said