A DEFINING MOMENT IN THE WAR AGAINST TERROR: WHY THE ELIMINATION OF ABU-BILAL AL-MINUKI MUST MARK A TURNING POINT

By

Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd) mni fnipr

The reported neutralisation of Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, described as the second-in-command of the so-called Islamic State (ISIS) globally and one of the most influential commanders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), along with scores of other terroristts, through a joint operation involving the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the United States military, represents an extraordinary milestone in the long and arduous countertrerrosim efforts and war against terrorism in Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin. If sustained and properly consolidated, this unprecedented feat may well be remembered as one of the most consequential counter-terrorism successes in our national history.

For over one and a half decades, Nigeria has borne the devastating burden of terrorism unleashed by Boko Haram and its splinter groups, particularly ISWAP. Thousands of innocent citizens have lost their lives. Communities have been destroyed, livelihoods disrupted, and millions displaced. Military units, critical national infrastructure, schools, places of worship and entire communities have repeatedly come under attack. Yet, despite these painful realities, the resilience of the Nigerian people and the courage, sacrifices and professionalism of the Armed Forces of Nigeria have remained steadfast and optimistic.

Against this backdrop, the reported precision air-land operation conducted at Metele in Borno State under the auspices of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, in close collaboration with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), deserves commendation and national recognition beyond just the newspaper headlines and breaking news. The operation, according to official statements from Nigerian authorities, was the culmination of painstaking intelligence gathering, surveillance, target acquisition and operational planning. Such coordination, reportedly involving precision strikes and ground force containment measures, demonstrates the increasing sophistication and maturity of Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts and architecture.

What makes this operation particularly significant is not merely the elimination of a high-profile terrorist leader, but the symbolism and strategic consequences attached to it. If indeed Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki occupied the exalted but ignoble operational position attributed to him within the ISIS global network, then his elimination sends a clear message to terrorist organisations everywhere: there will be no sanctuary for those who orchestrate violence against innocent populations and sovereign nations.

It is therefore fitting to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for providing strategic leadership and political support to the Armed Forces in prosecuting the counter-insurgency campaign. His public acknowledgement of the operation and appreciation of international collaboration demonstrates a leadership posture committed to national security and international partnerships.

Equally deserving of commendation are the Ministers of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, officers and soldiers of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), and other security forces, particularly troops of Operation HADIN KAI, whose courage, resilience and professionalism have continued to deny terrorists freedom of action in the North East theatre. The sacrifices of these brave men and women, often operating under extremely difficult conditions and in hostile terrain, should never be taken for granted. They continue to stand as the last line of defence between law-abiding citizens and forces of chaos. The leadership and command of Operation HADIN KAI and the support of well meaning annd law abiding people of the north east deserve a pat on the back.

The operational and intelligence personnel involved in this mission, including air and ground components, also deserve special recognition. Successful counter-terrorism operations of this nature are rarely accidental. They are products of meticulous planning, sustained surveillance, inter-agency cooperation, operational discipline and strategic patience. That the operation was reportedly executed without casualties or loss of assets further attests to the professionalism, competence and preparedness of the personnel involved.

The role of the United States government and military authorities also merits acknowledgement. Counter-terrorism today is increasingly transnational in nature, requiring intelligence sharing, technological cooperation and operational synergy among partners. Terrorists and insurgent organisations exploit societal vulnerabilities, porous borders, digital networks, illicit financing and regional instability. Consequently, no nation can effectively confront such threats in isolation. The reported cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, therefore, serves as a worthy model of strategic partnership in confronting shared security challenges.

Indeed, the commendation reportedly issued by President Donald J Trump on the operation and the collaborative disposition of both nations reinforces the importance of international solidarity in defeating violent extremism. Terrorism is not merely Nigeria’s problem; it is a global menace that threatens international peace, economic stability and human security.

However, while this development deserves celebration, it must not lead to complacency. History teaches us that terrorist groups are adaptive, opportunistic and often quick to regenerate leadership structures after suffering battlefield setbacks. Therefore, the elimination of a major commander and a handful of his loyalists, however significant, must be viewed as a strategic opportunity to intensify and consolidate gains rather than a signal of mission accomplished.

This is why the Armed Forces of Nigeria, Operation HADIN KAI and the Multinational Joint Task Force must seize this momentum to relentlessly pursue remnants of Boko Haram and ISWAP elements across the Lake Chad Basin, Mandara Mountains and anywhere else. Follow-on operations, sustained intelligence exploitation, denial of safe havens and coordinated offensives must continue with renewed vigour. Terrorist regrouping must be prevented at all costs.

More importantly, there is an urgent need to deepen and expand collaborative efforts with neighbouring countries, particularly Cameroon, Chad and the Niger Republic, under the framework of the Multinational Joint Task Force. Terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin is regional in character and therefore demands regional solutions. Criminal and terrorist elements exploit border vulnerabilities, governance gaps and local grievances to sustain their activities. Stronger military cooperation, intelligence fusion, joint patrols, clearance operations and harmonised operational strategies among these countries are therefore indispensable.

At the same time, Nigerians themselves must recognise that the fight against insurgency is not the sole responsibility of the military or the security forces alone. Citizens have important roles to play through vigilance, information sharing, community resilience and support for lawful authorities. Intelligence provided by local communities has repeatedly proven decisive in disrupting terrorist activities. Communities must therefore reject fear and refuse to provide shelter, sympathy or logistical support to violent extremists.

Likewise, political leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, public opinion moulders, civil society organisations and the media must continue to support national counter-terrorism objectives through constructive engagement, public sensitisation and responsible communication. We must eschew divisive, unsubstantiated and demoralising statements. Terrorists thrive on propaganda, misinformation and fear. Society must deny them these advantages.

As a retired senior military officer who proudly and gallantly took part in the counterinsurgency efforts and has closely observed Nigeria’s security trajectory and understands the sacrifices of our troops, I remain cautiously optimistic. The destruction of Boko Haram and ISWAP is possible. It is difficult, certainly, but it is achievable and doable. Other nations have confronted seemingly intractable terrorist threats and prevailed through persistence, coordination, technological superiority, political will and public support.

The present military and security architecture leadership and the brave troops on the frontlines have before them a historic opportunity. Posterity would remember them favourably if, in their time, they achieve what many Nigerians have long prayed for: the complete dismantling of Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents and terror networks and the restoration of enduring peace to the North East and beyond.

This latest operation should therefore not merely be seen as a tactical victory. It should be treated as a defining strategic moment and opportunity, a morale booster for troops, a warning to terrorists, and a rallying point for national and regional unity against extremism.

Nigeria has paid dearly in blood, treasure and collective trauma. The time has come to finish this fight decisively.

May God continue to bless and protect the Armed Forces of Nigeria, security agencies and all those working tirelessly for peace and security in our nation.

The writer, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd) mni fnipr fapra fnarc FIOARM fspsp, is a renowned strategic communication, public relations and security expert. He is a former Director of Army Public Relations and spokesman of the Nigerian Army, former National Publicity Secretary of the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), and Consultant Director, Corporate Affairs and Information Services, Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja.

COMR. YUSUF TOBI JAMIU ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR SUG WEEK 2026, CALLS FOR MASS PARTICIPATION

University of Abuja SUG President Unveils 6-Day Programme Focused on Leadership, Innovation, Culture, and Student Unity

ABUJA, NIGERIA — The President of the Students’ Union Government, University of Abuja, Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu (JAMO) has officially unveiled the schedule of activities for SUG WEEK 2026, scheduled to hold from 18th to 23rd May, 2026, at the University of Abuja.

In an official release to the general public, Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu stated that this year’s edition is designed as a comprehensive student engagement and development programme aimed at promoting leadership, innovation, entrepreneurship, culture, intellectual interaction, entertainment, sportsmanship, and social integration within the university community.

“SUG Week 2026 is not merely a celebration, but a reflection of purposeful student leadership and the collective spirit of the University of Abuja student community, ”Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu said. “I encourage every student to participate actively, represent their faculties and departments positively, and make the most of this platform for growth and unity.”

Building on a Record of Student-Centred Governance

Under the leadership of Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu, the current administration, has introduced several initiatives to improve student engagement and institutional representation. These include the unveiling of the official SUG Website, presentation of SUG Buses, development of strategic partnerships, presentation of the SUG Magazine, and various welfare and empowerment-driven programmes.

With the approval and support of University Management led by the Vice-Chancellor, *Prof. Abdulhakeem Fawehinmi Babatunde*, SUG Week 2026 has been structured to provide students with opportunities for networking, creativity, intellectual participation, relaxation, and campus-wide unity.

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SUG WEEK 2026 Schedule of Activities

Day 1 – Monday, 18th May: Corporate Day
Official Launch & Unveiling
1. Official Unveiling of the SUG Website
2. Presentation and Commissioning of the SUG Buses
3. Presentation of the SUG Magazine
4. Award Presentation Ceremony
5. Leadership and Innovation Summit
6. Networking Session

The opening ceremony will feature distinguished personalities, public office holders, institutional stakeholders, business leaders, and guests from across the country.

Day 2 – Tuesday, 19th May: Old School Day
Inter-Faculty Debate Competition
A day dedicated to celebrating culture, creativity, and intellectual engagement through vintage-themed appearances and an inter-faculty debate competition.

Day 3 – Wednesday, 20th May: Jersey Day
Sports & Health Awareness
Focus on fitness, wellness, sportsmanship, and health awareness through sporting activities, recreational engagements, and sensitisation programmes.

Day 4 – Thursday, 21st May: Denim Day
Career & Entrepreneurship Day
Empowering students with career development opportunities, entrepreneurship knowledge, mentorship, networking, and innovation-driven discussions.

Day 5 – Friday, 22nd May: Fashion Show Day
Fashion Display & Runway Experience
Students will showcase creativity, talent, fashion expression, and entertainment through runway displays and coordinated fashion activities.

Day 6 – Saturday, 23rd May: Fake Wedding / Owambe Finale
Grand Finale
The grand social and cultural finale brings students together through music, culture, fashion, food, entertainment, and social interaction.

Call to Action
Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu and the Students’ Union Government encourage all students to take part in the week’s activities and uphold the spirit of unity and excellence that defines the University of Abuja.

Students interested in volunteering, participating, partnering, sponsoring, modelling, or engaging in any activity are advised to send a direct message to the Union through the provided contacts.

For Sponsorship and Partnership: +234 810 593 0335

Signed:
Comr. Yusuf Tobi Jamiu (JAMO)
President, Students’ Union Government (SUG)
University of Abuja

REJOINDER: SECURITY AGENCIES ARE NOT TOOLS OF INTIMIDATION BUT INSTITUTIONS OF JUSTICE.

The recent publication titled “Enugu Nursing College Faces Backlash for Using DSS, Police to Intimidate Student Nurse for Exposing Oppression” is a clear attempt to sensationalize a matter that is already before lawful authorities and to deliberately further tarnish the image of Ezzy International College of Nursing Sciences through emotional propaganda, half-truths, and social media trial.

For the avoidance of
doubt, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other security agencies are constitutional institutions established by law to investigate complaints, establish facts, preserve public order, and ensure justice. Their involvement in any matter does not amount to intimidation. Rather, it reflects the lawful pathway for resolving allegations, especially where there are claims of cyber-bullying, defamation, unauthorized recordings, false publications, and dissemination of misleading information capable of damaging institutional reputation and public confidence.

It is therefore surprising that intellectually poor bloggers and such individuals who continuously make public allegations on social media suddenly describe lawful invitations by security agencies as “oppression.” One cannot publish accusations, circulate inflammatory contents online, mobilize public outrage, and then reject legal scrutiny when called upon to substantiate those claims before competent authorities.

Mr. Francis Nwapa and those behind these coordinated media attacks should understand that social media is not a courtroom, and activism requires truths and fairness that must not place anyone above the law. If allegations have been made publicly against Ezzy International College of Nursing Sciences and its leadership, then the proper and civilized response is to appear before the relevant authorities and provide evidence to substantiate such claims instead of resorting to media blackmail and emotional manipulation.

The attempt to portray every lawful investigation as victimisation is both irresponsible and dangerous. Security agencies are not established to entertain sentiments or online noise; they are empowered to determine truth from falsehood through a due process.
Or could it be that Mr.Francis Nwapa and his cohorts assume themselves untouchable and above the law, even when they churn out lies and deceits against legally established institutions on social media? If Nwapa claims to be the coordinator of Youth Rights Campaign (YRC), legal or illegitimate as it seems, should be able to know the duties of the DSS and the Police and accord them same respect. The group should know the law and its process. The group should have a learned legal profiled counsel to respond or educate their ignorance of the law. Needless to say that Mr. Francis Nwapa’s strategy of Cyber-bullying is a game the DSS and the police are so familiar with and cannot be cowed thereof.

The insinuation Mr. Nwapa made about transferring the case to Lagos for his convenience is baseless. He should have defined his jurisdiction before he went uncontrolled on social media space to write what he didnt understand. He should have asked questions on the location of the crime alleged. But, No. He went viral to disburse unfounded information which he claimed happened at a location he never knew. Now, he is being invited to Enugu where the alleged crime was committed, instead of yielding to the state of law, Francis is calling for public sympathy. He insinuates in the writing that investigation procedure be shifted to Lagos to accommodate his reporting ineptitude, rather than at Enugu where the petition and incidents took place. What a myopic view of the procedure! It is pertinent to note that the law does not recognize convenience.

Therefore, if invitations were extended by the DSS or Police, it is only proper for those involved to honour such invitations and clarify the numerous statements and allegations which they already circulated online.

Furthermore, it is important to remind the public that institutions have rules, ethical codes, and disciplinary procedures designed to protect professionalism, patient confidentiality, institutional integrity, and public trust. Unauthorized recording of patients, hospital environments, administrators, or internal communications and broadcasting them online without clearance may raise serious ethical and legal concerns, especially in professional healthcare training institutions.
It is also intellectually dishonest for certain groups to weaponize the current security challenges in Nigeria as an excuse to discredit lawful investigations.

The DSS and Police are capable of handling multiple responsibilities simultaneously, including investigating complaints relating to cyber harassment, defamation, false information, and conduct capable of inciting unrest. Mr. Francis, writing on his blog “Francis Nwapa Watch” on 15th of April called for proper investigation into the matter. The security agents yielded to that call and lunched investigations to establish the truth. Why is Mr. Nwapa afraid to dance the music he started beating its drums? Journalism is an age long profession practiced by men of seasoned value, honesty and integrity to uphold public truths. It is unfortune that Mr. Francis whose only known job is pest control and fumigation dabbled into a noble profession as journalism, untrained and unequipped to investigate truth before misinforming the public. More disheartening is that Francis might not know the huge negative impact he would be making to institutions and the public just because he afforded a cheap phone and data to post unverified information on blogs.

Dr. Gloria C. Bertram-Okoli and the management of Ezzy International College of Nursing Sciences have consistently demonstrated commitment to healthcare education, discipline, and institutional excellence. The college cannot and will not surrender its integrity to orchestrated campaigns of calumny or mob pressure driven by social media theatrics.

The public is therefore urged to disregard attempts to distort facts and to allow lawful authorities to carry out their constitutional duties without intimidation from activist groups seeking publicity. Justice is not established on Facebook posts, WhatsApp broadcasts, or media headlines, but through lawful investigation and evidence.

Meanwhile it is also contempt of the legal process as Mr. Nwapa continues to bully online and misinform the public about a matter which is already under investigation. The police had advised that all parties be invited to respond to questions.

The matter is being followed legally. Mr. Francis will do well to submit to legal procedure.

Those who have made allegations should courageously present their evidence before the appropriate authorities instead of portraying legitimate legal procedures as persecution. Truth does not fear investigation.
—Opinion—