Nigeria’s security forces confront bandits, militants and kidnappers; pay hikes and joint ops with international partners mark a period of intensified counter‑insurgency efforts.
The New York Times, Al Jazeera and The Guardian report that Donald Trump has announced a joint US-Nigerian operation has killed Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as a top ISIS leader. The White House-linked posts credit Nigerian forces and American support, while Nigeria confirms involvement and states the compound was near Lake Chad. The US has previously deployed troops to Nigeria for training and support, with no combat role stated by Abuja.
Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters has announced that the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) commander Abubakar Mainok has been killed in a joint air-land operation with U.S. Africa Command in the Lake Chad region. The operation targeted senior ISWAP figures and logistics hubs, with authorities reporting multiple fatalities among militants.
Retired and active security figures warn against regional blame as Nigeria faces a persisting security crisis. Attacks across Kebbi, Zamfara and other states have left dozens dead or abducted; officials urge a united, proactive response while noting political rhetoric is complicating efforts.
Armed groups have abducted a Kebbi State judge and later abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State. Nigerian security forces have conducted multi-agency operations to rescue the kidnapped victims, while investigations continue into the perpetrators and their networks. The government has rejected ransom negotiations and is pursuing wider security measures.
Nigeria's government has approved an 80% pay rise for the lowest-ranked soldiers and up to 30% for senior officers, effective September 1. The move aims to improve troop welfare and bolster operations against insurgents, banditry and kidnappings amid ongoing security challenges. The wage bill will rise by about 264 billion naira, with estimates showing 250,000 personnel benefiting.
Nigeria’s security forces have coordinated a mass operation involving the National Counter-Terrorism Centre, the Armed Forces, the police, and the DSS to rescue 308 kidnapped citizens from Niger and Kwara states. Among them, 163 were abducted from Woro in Kwara, and 145 from Niger State. The operation, described by officials as the largest single-day rescue, has prompted government calls for stronger early-warning systems and rapid response capabilities.