Defence Headquarters sheds light on neutralized militant leader Al-Minuki's true identity

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Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Olufemi Oluyede

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The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified concerns over the identity of a terrorist commander, Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, recently neutralised in a joint operation with the United States Africa Command.

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This is contained in a statement issued by the director, defence information, Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, on Saturday in Abuja.

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Uba stated that the clarification became necessary following media reports referencing a similar operation in 2024 involving a terrorist commander bearing the same name.

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He explained that the use of identical names, aliases and nom de guerre is common among ISWAP and Boko Haram fighters, often as part of strategies to obscure identities.

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According to him, the Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki eliminated on May 16, 2026, has been positively identified through credible human intelligence and technical surveillance.

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He described the neutralised commander as a senior global operative within the Islamic State network with direct links to international terrorist coordination, funding and operations across the Sahel.

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“There is no ambiguity regarding the identity of the individual neutralised in the recent operation,” he said.

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Uba noted that the operation marked a significant milestone in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts by the Armed Forces of Nigeria in collaboration with international partners.

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He urged the public and media to rely on verified information from official sources to avoid confusion arising from name similarities.

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The defence spokesman reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to dismantling terrorist networks and sustaining pressure on insurgent groups across the region. (NAN)

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