Boko Haram Insurgents Ambush NSCDC Team in Niger State, Kill Four Officers, One Missing

Four officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were killed in an ambush by Boko Haram terrorists in Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State, during an inspection tour of national grid installations.

The incident occurred on November 18, 2024, and was confirmed in a statement by NSCDC spokesperson Babawale Afolabi. He revealed that the ambush targeted a convoy comprising seven officers near the boundary of Niger and Kaduna states. Two officers managed to return to base unhurt, while one remains missing.

Dr. Ahmed Audi, the Commandant General of the NSCDC, visited injured personnel in a medical facility on Thursday. Commending their courage, 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 unfolded as the team, which included nine officers and 71 other ranks, was escorting stranded expatriates found in the bush around Dagwachi Village back to Shiroro. The convoy was ambushed by over 200 heavily armed insurgents firing from a hilltop with advanced weaponry.

Despite being outnumbered, the NSCDC operatives fought back and reportedly neutralised more than 50 insurgents during the confrontation.

Dr. Audi expressed condolences to the families of the deceased, described the attack as a tragic loss, and pledged full support for the injured. He assured the families of the affected officers that insurance benefits would be expedited. Additionally, he called for public collaboration to strengthen efforts against insecurity in the region.