An ambush by Boko Haram insurgents has caused the death of four Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) officers during an inspection tour of national grid installations in Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State.
The incident happened on 18 November 2024.
Babawale Afolabi, the NSCDC spokesperson, confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday, saying: “Recall that seven personnel of the Corps’ Special Squad drawn from the National headquarters, FCT and Kaduna State Command respectively were declared missing in action when they were ambushed in boundaries between Niger and Kaduna states by the Boko Haram insurgents during an inspection tour of the National Grid Installation.
“As of today, out of the seven missing officers, four dead bodies had been recovered; two men returned back to base unhurt while one personnel is still missing in action.”
Dr Ahmed Audi, the NSCDC Commandant General, visited the wounded officers at a medical facility on Thursday and commended their bravery.
He stated: “The personnel demonstrated an unwavering determination and commitment to the service of their fatherland; hence, they deserve all the support they can get from the organisation and the government they swore allegiance to.”
The attack occurred near the boundary of Niger and Kaduna states while the team, comprising nine officers and 71 other ranks, was returning from Shiroro after escorting stranded expatriates found in the bush around Dagwachi Village.
Over 200 heavily armed insurgents ambushed the convoy from a hilltop, opening fire with sophisticated weapons.
Despite being outnumbered, the NSCDC operatives repelled the attack, reportedly neutralising over 50 insurgents in the crossfire.
Dr Audi described the incident as a tragic loss, offering condolences to the families of the deceased and pledging unwavering support for the injured.
He further assured that insurance benefits for affected families would be expedited and called for public collaboration to combat insecurity.
