The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has confirmed the death of one of its officers following an attack by unidentified armed men on personnel conducting routine surveillance patrols in Niger State.
The attack occurred on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at about 11:30 a.m. along the Tunga Taya-Woro axis of the state, involving two personnel attached to the Service’s Wawa Control Post.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the NIS identified the deceased officer as Assistant Superintendent of Immigration (ASI) I.U. Babangida, while the other officer, Inspector A.K. Musa, sustained serious injuries but managed to escape.
According to the service, the injured officer is currently receiving medical attention.
“The incident occurred on Tuesday, 6th October 2026, at about 11:30 hours, when two personnel on routine surveillance patrol were violently attacked by unidentified armed men,” the statement said.
“Sadly, one officer, ASI I.U. Babangida, tragically lost his life, while the other, Inspector A.K. Musa, sustained serious injuries but managed to escape and is currently receiving medical attention.”
The Service disclosed that the deceased officer had been laid to rest in accordance with Islamic rites, describing his death as a loss to the organisation.
“The Service honours his sacrifice and unwavering commitment to duty,” the statement added.
The NIS also extended its condolences to the family, colleagues and loved ones of the deceased officer, while wishing the injured personnel a speedy recovery.
“The Service condoles with the family, colleagues and loved ones of the deceased officer and wishes the injured personnel a speedy recovery, assuring both families of its continued support and assistance during this difficult period,” it said.
On efforts to apprehend those responsible, the Service said it was collaborating with the Niger State Government and other security agencies to track down the attackers.
“The Service is working closely with the Niger State Government and relevant security agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible for this heinous act and ensure that they are brought to justice,” the statement said.
Despite the attack, the Immigration Service insisted that the incident would not weaken its resolve to carry out its statutory responsibilities, particularly the protection of Nigeria’s borders.
“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains undeterred by this unfortunate incident and reaffirms its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the Nation’s Borders,” it stated.