The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has confirmed a terrorist attack on its personnel stationed at Wawa area of Borgu Local Government Area in Niger State. The attack, which occurred shortly after midnight, has again raised concerns over the worsening security situation in parts of the state.
The Niger State Commandant of the NSCDC, Mr Suberu Siyaka-Aniviye, confirmed the incident on Wednesday while briefing journalists in Minna, the state capital. He said the attackers came in large numbers and attempted to overrun the NSCDC outpost, but were resisted by officers on duty.
According to the commandant, the attackers arrived a few minutes after midnight and tried to take advantage of the darkness and the remote nature of the area. However, the NSCDC personnel on duty noticed suspicious movements early and responded promptly.
Siyaka-Aniviye explained that the officers attempted to repel the attackers, but the situation became difficult due to the large number of terrorists involved and the poor visibility at night.
“Our personnel were alert and responded immediately, but the attackers were many, and the darkness made it difficult for effective engagement,” he said.
He added that the terrorists used torchlights to identify anyone approaching their direction before opening fire. This forced the NSCDC officers to tactically manoeuvre and take cover in order to avoid being hit.
“The attackers used torchlights to identify targets and then fired sporadically. Our men manoeuvred and took cover, but they had several weapons and were firing heavily,” the commandant said.
During the exchange, the NSCDC personnel were forced to abandon their operational vehicle as they moved to safer positions. However, the attackers reportedly believed that the officers were still inside the vehicle and opened fire on it repeatedly.
As a result, the vehicle was badly damaged. Siyaka-Aniviye said the windscreen was shattered, while all four tyres were punctured by bullets. The vehicle was later recovered after the attackers withdrew.
“The operational vehicle was riddled with bullets. The windscreen was damaged and all the tyres were punctured. Later, the tyres were replaced and the vehicle was driven back to our headquarters in Minna,” he said.
Apart from damaging the vehicle, the attackers also looted personal belongings belonging to residents and possibly personnel in the area. According to the commandant, the terrorists went into nearby huts and made away with luggage containing clothes, mobile phones, and other personal items.
“They went into huts and carted away luggage containing clothes, mobile phones, and other gadgets,” he added.
Fortunately, no NSCDC personnel was killed during the attack. However, the incident has once again highlighted the dangers faced by security officers deployed to rural and high-risk areas across Niger State.
Wawa area of Borgu Local Government Area is a remote community located close to forest regions that have become hideouts for armed groups in recent years. The area is also not far from the Kainji Lake National Park, which security experts say has been exploited by terrorists and bandits due to its vast and difficult terrain.
Niger State has been one of the states most affected by insecurity in northern Nigeria. Armed bandits and terrorist groups have carried out attacks on villages, highways, and security formations in several local government areas, including Shiroro, Munya, Rafi, Mariga, and Borgu.
In recent years, security agencies have recorded attacks on military bases, police stations, and other security outposts in the state. These attacks are often aimed at stealing weapons, weakening security presence, or intimidating local communities.
The NSCDC plays a key role in protecting critical national assets and infrastructure, including power installations, water facilities, and government property. The corps also supports other security agencies in maintaining peace, especially in rural areas.
The attack on the NSCDC outpost in Wawa comes amid ongoing efforts by the federal and state governments to address insecurity through increased deployment of security forces and collaboration with local vigilantes.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has repeatedly expressed concern over the activities of terrorists and bandits in the state. He has called for stronger cooperation between security agencies and local communities to improve intelligence gathering and response.
Residents of Borgu Local Government Area expressed fear following the attack. Some locals said they heard gunshots late at night and stayed indoors until morning. Others called on the government to strengthen security in the area to prevent future attacks.
Community leaders also appealed to residents to cooperate with security agencies by sharing useful information about suspicious movements. They noted that timely intelligence could help prevent attacks and save lives.
Meanwhile, the NSCDC commandant assured residents that the corps remains committed to protecting lives and property despite the challenges. He praised the bravery of the personnel involved in the incident and said measures were being taken to prevent a repeat attack.
Siyaka-Aniviye also called for improved logistics and support for officers operating in difficult terrains. He stressed that adequate equipment, communication tools, and mobility are essential for effective security operations.
As investigations continue, security agencies are expected to intensify patrols in the Wawa area and surrounding communities. Authorities have also promised to track down the attackers and bring them to justice.