The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has launched a coordinated effort with the Niger State Government and other security agencies to track down individuals responsible for an attack on two of its personnel, which resulted in the death of one officer and left another seriously injured.
The incident occurred at the Wawa Control Post along the Tunga Taya-Woro axis of Niger State on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, when the officers were reportedly conducting a routine surveillance patrol.
According to the Service, the personnel came under attack from unidentified armed men at approximately 11:30 a.m. while carrying out their official assignments.
The assault claimed the life of Assistant Superintendent of Immigration (ASI) I.U. Babangida, while his colleague, Inspector A.K. Musa, sustained serious injuries but managed to escape from the scene.
The NIS described the incident as a painful loss to the organisation and expressed condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased officer.
The development was made public in a statement issued by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Comptroller of Immigration Akinsola Akinlabi, who confirmed the circumstances surrounding the attack and the condition of the surviving officer.
NIS confirms death of officer during patrol
Providing details of the incident, Akinlabi explained that the two immigration personnel were on routine surveillance duties when they were attacked by the armed men.
The Service did not disclose the identities of the assailants or provide further information about how the attack unfolded. It also did not indicate whether the attackers had been arrested as of the time of the statement.
Babangida died following the assault, bringing a tragic end to his service at a time when he was carrying out responsibilities assigned to him by the immigration authorities.
His colleague, Musa, reportedly sustained serious injuries during the incident. Despite his condition, the inspector managed to escape and is currently receiving medical attention.
The NIS expressed concern over the attack and paid tribute to the late officer for his commitment to duty.
The Service also confirmed that arrangements had been completed for Babangida’s burial, which was conducted in accordance with Islamic rites.
While mourning his death, the immigration authorities acknowledged the sacrifice made by the officer in the course of his official responsibilities.
Service extends support to families
The death of Babangida has left his family and colleagues grieving, prompting the NIS to extend its sympathy to those affected by the incident.
In its statement, the Service conveyed condolences to the deceased officer’s relatives, friends and professional associates, recognising the emotional burden associated with losing a loved one in such circumstances.
It also assured the families of both officers that they would continue to receive support and assistance during the difficult period.
The Service expressed hope for Musa’s recovery and wished him a speedy return to good health following the serious injuries he sustained in the attack.
Although details of the injured officer’s medical condition were not made public, the NIS confirmed that he was receiving medical attention.
The organisation’s response highlighted the impact of the incident on its personnel and their families, particularly those whose relatives face risks while performing official duties.
NIS works with Niger Government to find suspects
Beyond expressing condolences, the immigration authorities said they were working with the Niger State Government and relevant security agencies to identify those responsible for the attack.
Akinlabi stated that the Service was committed to ensuring that the perpetrators were apprehended and brought before the appropriate authorities to face justice.
However, the NIS did not provide details of the investigative process or disclose whether security agencies had identified any suspects.
The circumstances surrounding the attack, including the motive of the assailants, remain unclear based on the information released by the Service.
The collaboration between the NIS, the state government and other security organisations is expected to support efforts to establish the facts of the incident and pursue those responsible.
No further information was provided on whether additional security measures had been introduced at the Wawa Control Post following the attack.
Immigration Service reaffirms commitment to border security
Despite the loss of one of its officers and the serious injuries sustained by another, the NIS maintained that the incident would not deter it from carrying out its responsibilities.
The Service reiterated its determination to continue safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and fulfilling its statutory duties.
Immigration personnel perform a range of responsibilities connected with border management, including monitoring movements across designated entry points and supporting efforts to prevent unauthorised entry into the country.
The attack on the two officers underscores the dangers that personnel may encounter while carrying out assignments in locations where security threats exist.
Nevertheless, the NIS said it remained committed to its mandate and would not allow the incident to weaken its resolve to protect the nation’s territorial integrity.
The Service’s position also comes as authorities continue to rely on cooperation among security agencies and government institutions to respond to security incidents and pursue suspected offenders.
For the family and colleagues of Babangida, however, the immediate consequence of the attack is the loss of an officer whose life ended while performing his duties.
As efforts to identify the attackers continue, the NIS has reiterated its determination to seek justice for the deceased officer, support the injured inspector and maintain its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s borders.
The Service has yet to announce any arrests linked to the incident in the statement provided.
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