The Nigeria Immigration Service has successfully facilitated the repatriation of 62 nationals from Mali via the Illela Border Command located in Sokoto State.
This development was disclosed in a statement released on Sunday in Abuja. According to the Controller of the Illela Command, Mr. Tony Akuneme, the returnees included 51 men and 11 women.
Akuneme stated that the repatriated individuals were escorted from the NIS Headquarters in Abuja by a team of eight immigration personnel led by Inspector Mamoud Sadiq.
The group traveled in two buses and arrived at the Illela Border Post at approximately 8:00 p.m. on Friday.
“Upon their arrival, I directed the Assistant Controller in charge of Human Resources, Adamu Mshelia, who also heads the Anti-Smuggling Unit, to oversee the proper documentation of the repatriated individuals,” Akuneme said.
He added that following the completion of the necessary procedures, the irregular migrants were transferred to the Niger Republic Police at the Birnin Konni control post.
There, they underwent additional screening and documentation before being received by the local police chief, known as the Commisere.
In a related update, Akuneme also announced ongoing construction at the Illela Control Post as part of measures to enhance border security operations.
He revealed that the Comptroller-General of the NIS, Kemi Nandap, has approved the establishment of both mega and mini Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) at the location.
“The construction company has begun land clearance and the demolition of dilapidated, unserviceable structures.
“We commend the CG for this significant upgrade, which aligns with her commitment to curbing irregular and prohibited migration across the country,” he stated.
Akuneme further assured citizens that the security situation in Illela and neighboring Tangaza remains stable.
He emphasized that the presence of military personnel and other security agencies has helped address potential threats from the Lakurawa bandits.
