Four officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have been confirmed dead following a Boko Haram ambush during an inspection of national grid infrastructure in Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State. The attack, which occurred on November 18, 2024, near the boundary between Niger and Kaduna states, also left one officer missing, while two others returned to base unharmed.
Incident Details
The NSCDC team was conducting routine surveillance of critical national grid installations when they were ambushed by insurgents. According to the NSCDC spokesperson, Babawale Afolabi, the ambush initially resulted in seven officers being declared missing.
“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,” Afolabi stated.
The team, consisting of nine officers and 71 other ranks from various NSCDC commands, had completed surveillance in Shiroro and was escorting stranded expatriates found in the bush near Dagwachi Village, who were returning from a mining site, when they were attacked. Over 200 insurgents ambushed the convoy, firing from elevated positions.
Despite being outnumbered, NSCDC operatives repelled the attack, reportedly neutralizing more than 50 insurgents in the ensuing crossfire.
Condolences and Support
NSCDC Commandant General, Dr. Ahmed Audi, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the officers, extending condolences to their families. During a visit to wounded personnel at a medical facility, he commended their bravery and assured them of the Corps’ full support, including medical expenses and welfare provisions.
“This is a tragic loss, and the officers demonstrated exceptional courage in defending critical national assets. They deserve our unwavering support,” Audi said.
He also pledged swift disbursement of insurance benefits to the families of the deceased and promised logistical and financial assistance to those affected.
Call for Vigilance
Dr. Audi condemned the attack, urging NSCDC personnel to remain vigilant despite the loss. He also called on the public to collaborate with security agencies in the fight against terrorism and insecurity, emphasizing the sacrifices made by officers in protecting national assets.
“The personnel showed an unwavering commitment to the service of their fatherland, and their welfare will remain a priority for the Corps,” Audi added.
Context and Aftermath
The ambush underscores the persistent security challenges in Nigeria, particularly in regions where terrorist groups like Boko Haram operate. The attack highlights the risks faced by security personnel in safeguarding critical infrastructure and citizens.
Investigations into the ambush are ongoing as security forces work to address the insurgency and prevent further attacks on strategic assets.
