BORNO STATE, Nigeria (AP), Nigerian and U.S. forces killed more than 20 fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in coordinated airstrikes in northeastern Borno State over the weekend, the Defence Headquarters said Monday.
The strikes, carried out in the Metele area near the Lake Chad region, followed intelligence reports that ISWAP fighters were regrouping after recent losses. Maj. Gen. Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, said the operation was conducted jointly with U.S. Africa Command and marked another step in efforts to dismantle extremist networks in Nigeria’s northeast.
No Nigerian or American personnel were harmed, according to officials. The Defence Headquarters said the operation was part of a broader campaign to deny insurgents safe havens and reduce their ability to launch attacks against civilians and security forces.
The airstrikes came just days after Nigerian and U.S. forces announced the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, a senior ISIS commander believed to be the group’s global second-in-command. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu praised that earlier operation as a “major victory for Nigeria’s sovereignty and security,” saying the country will not allow extremist groups to destabilize its northeast. U.S. President Donald Trump hailed the strike as proof of “strong U.S.-Nigeria cooperation against terrorism,” adding that it demonstrated America’s commitment to working with African partners to eliminate threats before they spread globally.
ISWAP, a faction of the Islamic State that split from Boko Haram, has carried out deadly attacks on civilians, aid workers, and military personnel across northeastern Nigeria and neighboring countries. The group remains active in the Lake Chad basin, where porous borders and difficult terrain have allowed insurgents to regroup despite military pressure.
International observers say the latest strikes highlight the growing military partnership between Nigeria and the United States. Analysts caution, however, that while airstrikes weaken insurgent groups, long term stability will require rebuilding communities, addressing humanitarian needs, and improving local governance.
Human rights organizations have urged both governments to ensure operations comply with international law and avoid civilian casualties. They stress that counterterrorism strategies must also include economic opportunities and education to prevent extremist groups from regaining ground.
For Nigeria, the operation underscores its commitment to defending sovereignty and restoring peace in the northeast. For the United States, it reflects a broader strategy of working with African partners to combat extremist threats that could destabilize the region and pose risks beyond Africa.
