The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has confirmed the deportation of 62 Malian nationals through the Illela Border Control Post in Sokoto State. According to a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, the group included 51 men and 11 women.
Mr Tony Akuneme, the Controller of the Illela Command, revealed that the individuals were transported from the NIS headquarters in Abuja to the border by a team of eight officers led by Inspector Mamoud Sadiq. The convoy, travelling in two buses, arrived at the Illela Control Post around 8:00pm on Friday.
“Upon their arrival, I directed the Assistant Controller in charge of Human Resources, Adamu Mshelia, who also doubled as the Officer in Charge of Anti-Smuggling Unit (ANTISOM), to oversee the proper documentation of the repatriated individuals,” Akuneme stated.
Following the documentation process, the migrants were handed over to officers from the Niger Republic Police at the Birnin Konni border post. There, they underwent a second round of screening and registration before being formally received by the area’s police chief, known as the Commisere.
In related developments, Akuneme noted that construction of new Forward Operating Bases (FOBs), both major and minor, is underway at the Illela post. The initiative, spearheaded by NIS Controller-General Kemi Nandap, is part of a broader effort to strengthen border security and tackle irregular migration across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
“The construction company has commenced land clearance and the demolition of some dilapidated and unserviceable structures. We appreciate the CG for this upgrade, which aligns with her commitment to curbing irregular and prohibited migration across the country,” Akuneme said.
He also assured the public that the Illela and Tangaza areas remain stable, with military and security forces maintaining a strong presence to counter any threats, including those posed by the Lakurawa bandits.