US;Nigeria say 200 ISIS-linked militants killed in joint counterterrorism strikes

By Victor Idajili

About 200 militants tied to ISIS have been eliminated in coordinated operations between the US and Nigeria, marking one of the biggest hits yet against insurgents operating in the region.

US Africa Command confirmed the development, saying the missions also wiped out key terrorist infrastructure — checkpoints and logistics bases that militants used to plan and sustain attacks.

  
Rebecca Hayes, Director of Public Affairs for AFRICOM, said the success came after months of strategic planning and steady intelligence sharing with Nigerian forces. 

The joint operations kicked off earlier this year at Nigeria’s request and zeroed in on the North-East, long seen as a stronghold for extremist groups. In May, a senior ISIS leader in Nigeria was reportedly taken out in targeted strikes.

 
Despite the numbers, authorities say Nigeria’s security situation remains fragile. Kidnappings, surprise attacks, and the spread of militant activity into new areas show insurgents are adapting.

Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters noted that heavier military pressure has pushed terrorists out of traditional bases. Now they’re trying to expand into other regions, making the fight more complex.

 
The US restated its commitment to backing Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts and said American military presence will continue “for as long as necessary.” 

Officials were clear on one point though: there are no plans right now to set up a permanent US military base in Nigeria.

The operations show growing cooperation between both countries against ISIS-linked groups, but commanders warn the job is far from finished.