American and Nigerian forces have stepped up coordinated military operations against the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in northeastern Nigeria, marking a major escalation in security cooperation within the Lake Chad Basin.
According to the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), fresh joint airstrikes targeted ISIS positions in the region just two days after the reported killing of senior jihadist leader Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, also known as Abubakar Mainok.
The operation, conducted around Metele in the Lake Chad Basin, reportedly eliminated several of his close associates as well.
Al-Minuki, originally from Borno State, was considered one of ISWAP’s top commanders before rising to a global operational role within the Islamic State network.
The intensified campaign highlights growing military collaboration between Washington and Abuja in tackling insecurity across the region.
Since early 2026, around 200 US military personnel and MQ-9 surveillance drones have reportedly been deployed to support Nigerian operations following earlier strikes launched in late 2025.
While AFRICOM said assessments are ongoing to determine the full impact of the latest strikes, analysts caution that the long-term strategic effect may remain limited, arguing that extremist groups often replace senior commanders quickly.
Despite this, the United States reaffirmed its commitment to supporting African partners in confronting terrorism and stabilizing the Lake Chad region.
