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Elimination of ISIS Commander Al-Minuki Proof Nigeria’s Counter-Terrorism Strategy Is Working — Coalition

Published

2 months ago

May 20, 2026

The National Coalition for Peace and Democracy has described the recent neutralisation of Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, a senior commander linked to the Islamic State global network, as strong evidence that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy is yielding measurable results.

Speaking at a world press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, President of the coalition, Dr Moses Okella, said the operation reflected the growing operational sophistication, intelligence coordination and combat effectiveness of the Nigerian Armed Forces under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede.

Addressing journalists, Okella emphasised that attempts in some international media reports to downplay Nigeria’s role in the operation were both misleading and unfair to the sacrifices made by Nigerian troops.

According to him, the operation was driven substantially by Nigerian intelligence systems, local operational planning and the courage of frontline troops operating in difficult terrains across the Lake Chad Basin.

“This operation represents far more than the elimination of a terrorist figure. It is a powerful demonstration of the growing capacity, professionalism, intelligence depth and operational coordination of the Nigerian Armed Forces. While international cooperation remains important and appreciated, the truth must be stated clearly that Nigerian soldiers, Nigerian intelligence assets, Nigerian air and ground forces, and Nigerian operational leadership were central to this mission,” he said.

Okella stated that the successful operation showed that Nigeria’s security institutions were becoming more integrated and strategic in confronting terrorism and transnational criminal networks.

He noted that under General Olufemi Oluyede, security agencies had improved collaboration in intelligence gathering, troop deployment, aerial surveillance and rapid response operations, leading to greater effectiveness in various conflict theatres.

“For years, one of the major challenges confronting counter-terrorism operations in Nigeria was fragmentation and weak coordination among security institutions. What we are witnessing today is the emergence of a more coherent security architecture where intelligence gathering, logistics, surveillance and operational response are becoming increasingly aligned. The operation against Al-Minuki is evidence of this evolution,” he said.

The coalition also commended the service chiefs, intelligence agencies and the Ministry of Defence for strengthening institutional coordination and operational efficiency.

Okella specifically praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustaining political support for security operations while strengthening international partnerships without compromising Nigeria’s sovereignty.

“The President has consistently maintained that modern security challenges require cooperation among nations. The recent operation validates that position. However, cooperation must never erase ownership. Nigeria was not a passive observer in this mission. Nigeria was the principal actor,” he said.

The coalition described Al-Minuki as one of the most dangerous extremist figures operating within the African wing of the Islamic State network, noting that his activities extended across the Lake Chad region and parts of the Sahel.

Okella said the elimination of the commander carried strategic importance because it would weaken terrorist command structures, disrupt recruitment networks and undermine extremist operations across the region.

“Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki was not an ordinary insurgent commander. He was identified internationally as one of the most senior Islamic State operatives in Africa. His elimination sends a clear message that terrorist leaders are no longer beyond reach. Symbolically, it restores confidence. Strategically, it disrupts command structures, financing channels and operational planning within extremist circles,” he stated.

The coalition further urged Nigerians to support security agencies through credible intelligence sharing and responsible public engagement, warning against narratives capable of demoralising troops.

“Terrorism thrives where distrust, misinformation and division weaken national unity. Too often, public discourse focuses only on setbacks while ignoring operational gains and battlefield successes. Yet behind every successful operation are soldiers risking their lives in difficult terrains while confronting heavily armed criminal groups. Their courage deserves national appreciation,” Okella added.

While describing the operation as a major victory, the coalition stressed that the fight against terrorism was far from over and called for sustained investment in military modernisation, troop welfare, intelligence technology and regional cooperation across the Lake Chad Basin and the Sahel.

He added that long-term peace would also require stronger investments in education, economic opportunities and post-conflict stabilisation programmes to prevent extremist recruitment.

“The successful neutralisation of Al-Minuki sends a clear message to terrorist networks operating within and beyond our borders that Nigeria’s security institutions are becoming increasingly capable, coordinated and determined. Nigeria has demonstrated that she is not helpless,” the statement said.

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World Cup 2026: Brazil Bow To Norway’s Pressure, Lose 2-1

Published

1 hour ago

July 5, 2026

Yusuf Musa

Brazil’s hopes of a smooth start at the 2026 FIFA World Cup were dashed on Sunday night as Norway stunned the five-time champions with a 2-1 victory. The match, played at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, showcased Norway’s tactical discipline and relentless pressing, which unsettled Brazil’s rhythm throughout the encounter.

Norway opened the scoring in the 18th minute through striker Erling Haaland, who capitalised on a defensive lapse to slot home past Alisson Becker. The goal set the tone for a contest where Norway refused to be intimidated by Brazil’s pedigree.

The Scandinavian side pressed high, forcing Brazil into hurried passes and disrupting their usual flair. Their compact midfield ensured that Brazil’s creative outlets struggled to find space.

Brazil equalised in the 39th minute when Vinícius Júnior combined with Rodrygo to break through Norway’s defence. Vinícius finished calmly, giving the South Americans a lifeline before halftime.

Despite the equaliser, Brazil looked unsettled. Their midfield failed to dominate possession, and Norway’s physical approach kept them on the back foot.

The turning point came in the 72nd minute when Martin Ødegaard delivered a precise free-kick that found Haaland, who headed in his second goal of the night. The strike sealed Norway’s victory and left Brazil chasing shadows in the final stages.

Brazil pushed forward in search of another equaliser, but Norway’s defence held firm. Goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland produced crucial saves, denying Neymar and Vinícius in the closing minutes.

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Post-match reports confirmed Norway’s strategy was built on pressing and quick transitions. Ødegaard’s leadership in midfield and Haaland’s clinical finishing proved decisive.

Brazil, meanwhile, struggled to adapt. Their reliance on individual brilliance was not enough against Norway’s collective organisation.

FIFA’s verified match report highlighted Norway’s efficiency, noting that they converted two of their three shots on target. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), monitoring the tournament closely, praised Norway’s tactical execution as a lesson in discipline for African teams.

Brazil’s coach, Dorival Júnior, admitted in his post-match press conference that his side failed to cope with Norway’s intensity. He promised adjustments ahead of their next group game.

Fans across social media expressed shock at the result, with many calling it one of the early upsets of the tournament. Analysts pointed out that Brazil’s defensive lapses and lack of midfield control were glaring weaknesses.

Norway’s victory has now placed them in a strong position in Group C, while Brazil must regroup quickly to avoid further setbacks.

Brazil will face Mexico in their next fixture, a match that now carries added pressure. Norway, buoyed by their historic win, will look to build momentum against South Korea.

The result underscores the unpredictability of the World Cup, where tactical discipline and determination can overturn reputations.

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Brothers Drive D’Tigers’ Force in FIBA World Cup Qualifiers

Published

6 hours ago

July 5, 2026

Yusuf Musa

Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, has found renewed energy in the ongoing FIBA World Cup Qualifiers, thanks to the impressive performances of the Iroegbu brothers, Ikenna and Uche.

The duo has become central to Nigeria’s winning streak, combining skill, speed, and tactical awareness to lift the team’s chances of securing a place in the global tournament.

Ikenna Iroegbu, the more experienced of the two, has consistently dictated play from the backcourt, providing leadership and scoring when needed. His younger brother, Uche, has complemented him with sharp shooting and defensive resilience. Together, they have given D’Tigers a balanced attack that opponents have struggled to contain.

Observers note that their chemistry on the court reflects years of shared training and understanding, making them one of the most effective sibling pairings in Nigerian basketball history.

D’Tigers’ recent victories in the qualifiers have reignited hope among fans who feared the team’s chances after earlier setbacks. The Iroegbu brothers’ contributions have been decisive, with clutch plays in tight moments ensuring Nigeria stays competitive against strong African rivals.

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Obi Accuses Tinubu Government of hiding ₦8.83trn Expenditure

Published

8 hours ago

July 5, 2026

Yusuf Musa

Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of gross corruption following revelations that ₦8.83 trillion spent in 2025 was not included in the national budget.

The allegation stems from findings in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) consultation report, which Obi cited in a statement posted on his X account. He argued that the expenditure was outside legislative oversight and administrative scrutiny, raising concerns about transparency in public financial management.

According to Obi, the IMF report revealed that the ₦8.83 trillion was not appropriated in the 2025 budget. He described the situation as “horrible,” stressing that such spending undermines accountability.

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He noted that the amount represents about two per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and more than 35 per cent of the ₦23.96 trillion capital expenditure budget for 2025.

Obi further claimed that the sum exceeds the combined allocations to education and health in the 2025 budget. He argued that if properly managed, the funds could have improved public services, created jobs, and supported economic growth.

The former Anambra State governor described the development as evidence of financial mismanagement, warning that such practices could deepen poverty and destabilise the country.

Obi labelled the Tinubu administration “grossly corrupt, incompetent and insensitive,” insisting that the alleged expenditure highlights the urgent need for accountability in governance. He reiterated his call for President Tinubu to resign, citing failure to deliver on campaign promises and lack of commitment to citizens’ welfare.

He urged Nigerians to hold the government accountable through lawful and democratic means.

As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency and the Federal Government had not responded to Obi’s claims.