The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has confirmed the repatriation of 62 nationals of the Republic of Mali through the Illela Control Post in Sokoto State.
Controller of the Illela Border Command, Mr. Tony Akuneme, made this known in a statement issued on Sunday, April 20 in Abuja. He revealed that the group included 51 males and 11 females, who were escorted from the NIS headquarters in Abuja to the border by a team of eight officers led by Inspector Mamoud Sadiq, using two buses.
The team arrived at the border post around 8 p.m. on Friday. Upon their arrival, Akuneme said he instructed the Assistant Controller in charge of Human Resources, Adamu Mshelia—who also heads the Anti-Smuggling Unit—to supervise the proper documentation of the migrants.
Following standard procedures, the individuals were handed over to officers of the Niger Republic Police at the Birnin Konni control post, where they underwent a second round of screening and documentation before being received by the regional police chief, the Commisere.
In a related development, Akuneme noted that construction work is ongoing at the Illela control post as part of a broader effort to strengthen border security. The upgrade, which includes both mega and mini Forward Operating Bases, is part of NIS Controller-General Kemi Nandap’s campaign to curb irregular migration nationwide.
He said the construction company has begun land clearing and the demolition of old, unserviceable structures. “We appreciate the CG for this upgrade, which aligns with her commitment to curbing irregular and prohibited migration across the country,” he stated.
Akuneme also assured the public that the situation in Illela and Tangaza areas remains calm, with military and security personnel maintaining a visible presence in response to potential threats from Lakurawa bandits.