By Paul Joseph
United States President Donald Trump has reportedly directed American forces to intensify military operations against ISIS-linked terrorists accused of targeting Christian communities in Nigeria.
The disclosure was made by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth during a press conference at the White House, where he said the directive was aimed at strengthening efforts to protect Christians facing violent attacks in parts of Nigeria.
According to Hegseth, American troops have already mobilised resources and commenced coordinated operations alongside Nigerian security forces in affected regions.
He stated that the joint operation recently resulted in the killing of Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, an ISIS commander described as a major figure allegedly linked to attacks on Christians and threats connected to the United States.
Reports indicated that Al-Minuki, who was born in Borno State, was killed during a joint operation involving U.S. forces and the Nigerian military in Nigeria’s North-East earlier in May.
The commander had previously been designated as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist by U.S. authorities in 2023 over alleged involvement in extremist activities.
The latest military action reportedly followed earlier American strikes targeting terrorist cells in Sokoto State in late 2025 as part of broader counterterrorism efforts in the region.
The development comes amid growing international concern over insecurity, insurgency and recurring attacks on communities across different parts of Nigeria, particularly in the North-East and North-West regions where armed groups continue to operate.
Security analysts say the renewed collaboration between the United States and Nigeria could further strengthen intelligence sharing, surveillance and counterterrorism operations against extremist organisations operating within the Lake Chad Basin and surrounding areas.
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