LunagisthubUS Commends Nigeria’s Efforts in Capturing Top Ansaru Leaders
The United States government has praised the Nigerian government and security forces for the successful arrest of two top leaders of the Ansaru terrorist group. Mahmud Muhammad Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, and Mahmud al-Nigeri, also known as Mallam Mamuda, were captured during a targeted operation conducted between May and July 2025 .
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, announced the arrest, stating that the duo were leaders of Ansaru, an Al-Qaeda affiliate in Nigeria responsible for multiple terror activities in northern Nigeria. The operation was described as a “high-risk, intelligence-led, counter-terrorism operation” .
The US Mission in Nigeria described the arrests as “a significant step forward in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and extremism.” This development underscores the Nigerian government’s efforts to tackle terrorism and extremism in the country .
Mahmud Muhammad Usman (Abu Bara’a):Described as the “Emir of Ansaru,” he coordinated terror sleeper cells across Nigeria and masterminded kidnappings and robberies to finance the group’s operations.Mahmud al-Nigeri (Mallam Mamuda): Abu Bara’a’s deputy, who controlled the “Mahmudawa” faction of Ansaru based around Kainji National Park .
Bayo Onanuga, spokesman for President Bola Tinubu, described the arrests as a “significant breakthrough in the war against terrorism.” The US government commended Nigerian security forces for their successful operation, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in combating terrorism.
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