The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has confirmed the tragic loss of four lives following an attack by suspected terrorists on its facilities at the Kangiwa border in Kebbi State. The incident, which occurred at approximately 7:20 p.m. on Friday, January 10, 2025, also caused significant damage to security infrastructure.
In a statement issued by the NIS Public Relations Officer, Service Headquarters, DCI Kenneth Udo, the victims of the attack include a local watchman and three contractors working on-site. Notably, no immigration officers lost their lives in the assault.
Attack Details
According to Udo, the attackers targeted the NIS facilities in the Kangiwa Local Government Area, unleashing violence that claimed the lives of the four individuals. While the motive of the attackers remains under investigation, the NIS reassured the public that it is working tirelessly with other security agencies to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
“The service regrets to announce a recent attack by a suspected terrorist group on our facilities and contractors on-site at the Kangiwa border in Kangiwa Local Government Area of Kebbi State at about 1920 hours on Friday, January 10, 2025,” the statement reads.
“The attack led to the death of four persons, including a local watchman and three contractors. We also recorded substantial damages to our security facilities. However, no immigration officers were killed during the attack.”
Condolences and Assurance
The NIS extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, emphasizing its commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders despite the tragic loss. “We send our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. We are actively working alongside our sister agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible for these heinous acts and bring them to justice,” Udo said.
He further reiterated that the NIS remains undeterred in fulfilling its core mandate of enhancing border security and national safety.
Strengthening National Security
The attack has highlighted the need for heightened security at Nigeria’s border points, with the NIS vowing to strengthen its resolve in countering threats and ensuring the safety of its personnel and infrastructure.
Despite the setback, the service has assured Nigerians that it will not waver in its mission to secure the nation’s borders. “The service remains resolute and undeterred in carrying on with its core mandate of border security in tandem with the goal of securing the nation,” the statement concluded.
The collaborative efforts of security agencies are expected to yield results soon, as investigations continue to unravel the circumstances surrounding the attack and bring the assailants to justice.
This incident underscores the risks faced by security personnel and contractors working on the frontline to safeguard the nation, with a renewed call for vigilance and enhanced security measures across Nigeria’s borders.
