Immigration boss orders reinforcement after deadly Kebbi border attack

By Ukpono Ukpong

30 November 2025

News

The Nigeria Immigration Service has moved to tighten security along the Tuga axis after three of its officers were killed during a late night attack on the Bakin Ruwa Checkpoint in Kebbi State.

The Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, confirmed that the assault was carried out by armed men who struck the border post around 2200 hours on Thursday, leaving personnel dead and destroying operational assets at the location.

She described the incident as violent and coordinated, adding that the Service will respond firmly to protect the nation’s borders.

Nandap said preliminary reports showed that the attackers targeted key facilities at the checkpoint and opened fire on officers on duty.

She called the deaths a painful loss for the Service and the country, stressing that the officers were carrying out their lawful duty of securing Nigeria’s frontiers when they were killed. She assured that their sacrifice will not be forgotten.

In a statement signed by the Service Public Relations Officer, Akinsola Akinlabi, the Service extended its condolences to the families of the deceased personnel.

It also expressed support for their colleagues and loved ones who are mourning the tragedy. The statement noted that the officers served with courage and paid the highest price in the line of duty.

“The Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nandap, regrettably confirms a violent and coordinated attack carried out by unidentified armed men on the Bakin Ruwa Checkpoint , under the TUGA Border Patrol Formation in Kebbi State.

“The incident occurred on Thursday, 27 November, 2025, at approximately 2200hrs. Three gallant NIS personnel lost their lives in the line of duty. Several operational assets and facilities at the location were also destroyed.

“The Service extends its heartfelt condolences and unwavering support to the families, colleagues, and loved ones of the fallen personel, honoring their selfless sacrifice and commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s Borders.” She said

The Comptroller General has since ordered an immediate tactical response to stabilise the area and prevent further attacks. According to Akinlabi, reinforcements have been deployed to the Tuga Border Patrol Formation to strengthen security and support ongoing operations. He said the move is aimed at restoring confidence among officers and residents in the area.

The Service also disclosed that joint operations with other security agencies have been intensified to track those responsible and deter similar threats. Intelligence gathering along the Tuga axis has been stepped up as part of efforts to close any gaps that may have been exploited during the attack. Patrols around key border points in Kebbi have also been expanded.

Nandap stressed that the Nigeria Immigration Service will not back down despite the attack. She said criminal elements would not be allowed to undermine border security or threaten personnel who work daily to keep the country safe. She also urged officers on the frontline to remain alert while assuring them of the Service’s support.

The statement appealed to residents in border communities to remain calm and continue to cooperate with security agencies. It said timely information from the public remains important for preventing attacks and strengthening security across the region.

Akinlabi noted that investigations into the attack have already begun and promised that the Service will work closely with other agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice. He said the NIS is committed to uncovering the circumstances that led to the breach and ensuring accountability.

The Service further highlighted the need for renewed vigilance in all border formations, adding that lessons from the attack will be used to improve security procedures and operational readiness. Officers have been charged to maintain discipline while adhering to safety protocols.

The NIS reaffirmed its mandate to secure Nigeria’s borders and said it remains focused on preventing criminal networks from exploiting border communities. It added that the Service will continue to take strong steps to protect both its personnel and the country.

“The Comptroller General has ordered an immediate tactical response, deploying reinforcements to the affected formation, intensified joint operations with other security agencies, enhanced intelligence-gathering along the entire Tuga axis, and heightened patrols to deter further threats and restore full security control of the area.

“The Nigeria Immigration Service remains resolute in its mandate to securing the nation’s Borders and will not be deterred by acts of criminality. We urge the public to remain calm and continue to cooperate with security agencies in their efforts to secure the Nation.” The statement reads in parts.