Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters has announced the continuation of coordinated military operations against ISIS-linked militants in the North East, following additional air strikes carried out in the general area of Metele.
In a press release issued on May 18, 2026, the Defence Headquarters said the operations were conducted in close coordination with the United States Africa Command, known as AFRICOM.
According to the statement, multiple air strikes were launched after security forces observed the convergence and movement of terrorist elements in the area. The Defence Headquarters said the strikes led to the elimination of more than 20 ISIS/ISWAP fighters.
The military said the latest operation follows the reported neutralisation of ISIS commander Abu-Bilal al-Minuki and forms part of sustained efforts to disrupt terrorist networks, remove fighters from the battlefield, and deny them safe haven within Nigeria.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will continue to aggressively defend the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of the nation,” said Major General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information.
He added that “terrorists who threaten our citizens, communities and national stability will be located and defeated.”
The statement further warned that there would be “no safe haven” for terrorists anywhere in Nigeria.
The renewed operations come amid continuing security pressure in parts of North East Nigeria, where communities have endured years of violence, displacement, and instability caused by Boko Haram, ISWAP, and other armed extremist groups.
While the military action signals an intensified counterterrorism effort, long-term stability in the region will also require sustained protection of civilians, humanitarian support for displaced families, intelligence-led policing, rehabilitation of affected communities, and deeper regional cooperation.
For communities in the North East, the measure of success will not only be the number of fighters removed from the battlefield, but also whether families can return safely to their homes, children can remain in school, farmers can access their land, and local economies can recover without fear.
The Defence Headquarters said operations will continue as part of Nigeria’s commitment to protecting national security and restoring stability in affected areas.
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