The United States government has hailed Nigeria for the successful arrest of two top leaders of the extremist group, Ansaru, describing the operation as a major victory in the fight against terrorism.
In a statement released on Monday via its official X handle, the U.S. Mission in Nigeria commended the Federal Government and its security agencies for apprehending Mahmud Muhammad Usman and Mahmud al-Nigeri, both senior figures linked to Ansaru’s violent activities.
“We commend the Nigerian Government and security forces on the successful arrest of wanted Ansaru leaders, Mahmud Muhammad Usman and Mahmud al-Nigeri,” the statement read.
The arrests were formally announced on Saturday by Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, during a press conference in Abuja. Ribadu praised the intelligence and coordination that led to the operation, adding that the arrests mark a significant step in weakening the group’s ability to destabilize communities across northern Nigeria.
Ansaru, a splinter faction of Boko Haram, is notorious for orchestrating kidnappings, violent attacks, and links to international terror networks. Security experts say the capture of its leaders could disrupt its chain of command and curb its recruitment drive.
Washington’s commendation reflects growing cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in counterterrorism efforts. The U.S. Mission emphasized that it would continue to support Nigeria in combating insurgency, strengthening intelligence sharing, and protecting civilian populations.
The development has been welcomed domestically as well, with security analysts noting that dismantling terror networks requires both local enforcement and international backing.
