The Nigerian military has dismissed reports suggesting that foreign soldiers directly participated in the operation that led to the elimination of notorious terrorist commander Abu Bilal Al-Minuki.
According to the Defence Headquarters, the mission was executed entirely by Nigerian troops, with no foreign boots deployed on Nigerian soil during the operation.
The clarification was made by Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, who explained that while the United States provided intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support, Nigerian forces carried out the ground operation independently.
Onoja made the remarks during a monitored television programme, where he addressed growing public interest surrounding the counterterrorism mission. He stressed that the success of the operation was a reflection of the tactical professionalism, coordination, and operational strength of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“There were no foreign boots on the ground during this operation. What we received were intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance support, and other force enablers,” Onoja stated. He described the mission as a carefully planned precision strike targeting a high-profile terrorist leader who had remained on international watchlists for years.
According to him, the operation followed months of intelligence gathering, surveillance, and strategic coordination before troops moved in on the target. Onoja also noted that the mission was completed without casualties on the side of Nigerian forces.
“We are happy to state that due to our troops’ professionalism, there was no loss of life on our side,” he added.
The military spokesperson addressed earlier reports that had suggested Al-Minuki was killed in 2024, clarifying that those reports stemmed from mistaken identity. He explained that the terrorist commander had operated under multiple aliases, allowing him to evade detection and remain active for years despite previous intelligence operations.
According to Onoja, Abu Bilal Al-Minuki had long been listed by several international monitoring and security bodies, including the United Nations, the United States, the European Union, and Nigerian authorities.
He stated that the final operation was only launched after security agencies obtained verified intelligence confirming the commander’s exact location.
The Defence Headquarters also reaffirmed its commitment to international security cooperation while maintaining that military operations within Nigeria remain under the full control of Nigerian authorities. Onoja noted that security agencies are still actively tracking other wanted terrorist and bandit leaders across the country.
Speaking on notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, he insisted the fugitive would eventually be apprehended. “He cannot hide forever. It is only a matter of time,” Onoja said.
The military further urged Nigerians to support security operations by providing timely and credible intelligence to relevant agencies. He also warned citizens against paying ransom to kidnappers and armed groups, stating that such payments only strengthen criminal networks and prolong insecurity.
The latest clarification comes after earlier claims by U.S. President Donald Trump suggested that American and Nigerian forces jointly carried out the operation.
However, Nigerian authorities have now made it clear that while foreign partners supported with intelligence assets, the mission itself was executed solely by Nigerian troops.
The operation is being viewed as a significant breakthrough in Nigeria’s ongoing war against terrorism and insurgency, particularly in regions heavily affected by extremist violence.
Discover more from Scoop Hub
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
