Nigeria military operations with United States Africa Command have killed over 20 ISIS/ISWAP fighters in coordinated air strikes across the North-East and parts of the wider Sahel, according to Defence Headquarters.
The Defence Headquarters confirmed the strikes in Metele, saying the joint campaign targeted migrating terrorist cells and continues ongoing counterterrorism pressure on ISIS-linked groups.
Joint Air Strikes Hit ISIS Cells in Metele
The Nigerian military said it carried out the operation in coordination with United States Africa Command.
However, Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the forces launched additional air strikes in the general area of Metele after tracking movements of terrorist groups.
He said intelligence showed convergence and migration of ISIS elements. Consequently, the joint strikes hit multiple targets and killed more than 20 ISIS/ISWAP fighters.
Military Links Operation to Wider Counterterror Push
Furthermore, the Defence Headquarters said the strikes form part of a sustained campaign against ISIS networks in the North-East.
It linked the latest action to the earlier neutralisation of ISIS commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki. The military said it continues to target command structures and operational cells.
Meanwhile, officials said the goal remains to disrupt terrorist movements, weaken their capacity, and block any attempt to establish safe zones within Nigeria.
Armed Forces Reaffirm Security Commitment
In response, Major General Samaila Uba said the Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue operations to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
He said troops will track and defeat terrorist elements across all locations. Furthermore, he stressed that no group will find safe haven within the country.
However, he maintained that ongoing joint operations will remain active as part of broader regional counterterrorism efforts.
