Nigerian Defence Headquarters confirmed on Saturday that no soldier was killed during the operation that eliminated terrorist commander Abu Bilal Al‑Minuki. Maj‑Gen. Michael Onoja, director of Defence Media Operations, told a televised interview monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria that the raid was a “carefully executed precision strike” against a high‑value target and that the troops’ professionalism prevented any loss of life on the Nigerian side.
According to Maj‑Gen. Onoja, the mission was the product of months‑long intelligence gathering, detailed planning and close coordination among the armed forces. He said commanders only launched the final assault after receiving credible, verified information on the terrorist’s exact location. The operation, he stressed, involved no foreign combatants on the ground; the United States supplied only intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support, along with other “force‑enabler” assets.
The official clarified that earlier reports of Al‑Minuki’s death in 2024 were the result of mistaken identity. The man neutralised was the original Abu Bilal Al‑Minuki, a figure who has operated under multiple aliases to evade detection. “These aliases allowed him to remain on international watchlists for a long time,” the general explained, noting that his name appears on lists maintained by the United Nations, the United States, the European Union and Nigeria’s own security agencies.
Onoja highlighted that the successful strike underscores the Nigerian military’s growing tactical readiness and discipline. He also warned that ransom payments to bandits and kidnappers only serve to strengthen criminal networks and prolong insecurity. The defence chief urged the public to assist security forces by providing timely information, emphasizing that “he cannot hide forever” in reference to other high‑profile outlaws such as wanted bandit leader Bello Turji, who remains under active surveillance.
In closing, Maj‑Gen. Onoja reaffirmed the armed forces’ commitment to restoring peace across affected communities and to deepening strategic security partnerships. He indicated that Nigeria will continue to work with international partners to counter terrorism while maintaining operational autonomy on the ground.
The operation marks a significant step in Nigeria’s broader counter‑terrorism effort, demonstrating both the capability of its forces to conduct precision raids and the value of intelligence sharing with allies. As security agencies maintain pressure on remaining insurgent leaders, the focus will now shift to stabilising liberated areas and preventing the resurgence of militant activity.
