The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has assured the widows of its personnel killed during an attack on the Shiroro National Grid in Niger State of immediate support, including employment opportunities.
The attack, which occurred on November 18, 2024, near the boundary between Niger and Kaduna states, left several officers dead and many others injured.
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Speaking on Saturday, the NSCDC spokesperson, Afolabi Babawale, extended the agency’s condolences to the families of the fallen personnel and reiterated its commitment to their welfare.
“The Commandant General has promised to take over the responsibility of the orphans left by the gallant officers who paid the supreme sacrifice. Furthermore, the widows will be employed by the NSCDC, and machinery has already been set in motion to actualise this promise,” Babawale said.
He also noted that the NSCDC is covering medical expenses for injured officers and facilitating their recovery.
To prevent further attacks, Babawale highlighted enhanced security measures around critical national infrastructure, particularly the Shiroro National Grid, which has been repeatedly targeted due to its high-risk location.
“We have increased our security apparatus in and around all the high-risk areas concerning locations of the national grid. Apart from the increase in surveillance and intelligence sharing, we are also working on using various technology platforms to enhance the effectiveness of our operations,” Babawale explained, adding that further details remain classified.
The attack took place in the Farin-Kasa area of Chukun Local Government, Kaduna State. According to Babawale, the team of nine officers and 71 other ranks, drawn from different NSCDC commands, had completed surveillance activities in Shiroro and were heading back to base when they were ambushed.
The officers were escorting expatriates stranded near Dagwachi Village after visiting a mining site when over 200 heavily armed insurgents attacked from a hilltop.
Despite being outnumbered and targeted with sophisticated weapons, the NSCDC operatives reportedly repelled the ambush, neutralising more than 50 insurgents in the ensuing crossfire.
The NSCDC has assured the public of its ongoing commitment to safeguarding national assets and supporting its personnel and their families.
