Photo: Senior ISWAP figure, Abu Bilal Al-Minuki killed during the strikes. —

The Nigerian military under Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with United States Africa Command partners, has sustained intelligence-driven airstrikes on ISWAP enclaves in the Lake Chad region, killing scores of fighters and destroying logistics hubs.

Security sources said the operations, which began on May 15, 2026, were part of a coordinated campaign to weaken ISWAP leadership and dismantle its strongholds in the North-East.

At Garin Abu Bilal, assessment reports confirmed the killing of senior ISWAP figure Abu Bilal Al-Minuki, also known as Abbor Mainok.

The Nigerian military, in collaboration with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), two days ago, also carried out another precision airstrike on a terrorist enclave in Arege, Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

It was gathered that the operation reportedly led to the killing of 21 suspected ISWAP fighters.

Security sources said the operation was conducted after intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance efforts confirmed the presence of insurgents in the area.

According to the sources, the coordinated strike targeted a camp where the terrorists were allegedly planning attacks and coordinating activities within the Lake Chad region.

The precision strike reportedly eliminated 21 fighters and disrupted the operational capability of the group.

“The strike was intelligence-driven and carefully executed to achieve maximum operational effect against the terrorists,” a source told Zagagola Makama.

Sources said the operation formed part of sustained Nigeria-US efforts to weaken terrorist networks, destroy their hideouts and deny them freedom of movement across the North-East.

Military authorities also noted that the mission reflected growing cooperation between Nigerian security forces and international partners in the fight against terrorism.

The latest airstrike is expected to further weaken insurgent activities around the Lake Chad Basin, where remnants of terrorist groups continue to regroup and attack isolated communities.