No foreign troops took part in ground operation against Al-Minuki — DHQ

The Defence Headquarters has clarified that no foreign soldiers were involved in the ground operation that led to the killing of terrorist commander, Abu Bilal Al-Minuki.

Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, made this known during a televised programme monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria.

He explained that while the United States supported the mission, its role was limited to intelligence and surveillance.

“There were no foreign boots on the ground during this operation. What we received were intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance support and other force enablers,” he said.

Onoja described the mission as a precise and well-coordinated strike targeting a high-value terrorist, noting that it showcased the professionalism and tactical efficiency of Nigerian troops.

He added that the operation was carried out without any casualties on the side of the military.

“We are happy to state that due to our troops’ professionalism, there was no loss of life on our side,” he said.

According to him, the success of the mission was the result of months of intelligence gathering and careful operational planning. He clarified that earlier reports of Al-Minuki’s death in 2024 were due to mistaken identity, stressing that the individual recently neutralised was the actual terrorist leader, who had operated under multiple aliases to evade capture.

“This individual has been on international watchlists for a very long time,” Onoja said, noting that agencies including the United Nations, the United States, the European Union and Nigeria had tracked his activities.

He further revealed that the final strike was launched only after credible intelligence confirmed the target’s exact location.

Onoja reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships in the fight against terrorism, while assuring that other high-profile criminals remain under close watch.

He specifically referenced wanted bandit leader Bello Turji, stating that his capture or elimination was only a matter of time.

“He cannot hide forever. It is only a matter of time,” he said.

The military spokesman also called on citizens to support ongoing operations by providing timely and credible information, warning that paying ransom to criminals only empowers them and prolongs insecurity.

He reiterated the armed forces’ resolve to restore peace and stability in affected parts of the country.