Nigeria Draws the Line, Deports 62 Undocumented Malians

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Illela Border Command in Sokoto State, has repatriated 62 nationals of the Republic of Mali through the Illela Control Post.

This was disclosed in a statement on Sunday by the Controller of the Command, Mr. Tony Akuneme. According to him, the deported individuals comprised 51 males and 11 females. They were escorted from the NIS headquarters in Abuja to Sokoto by a team of eight officers led by Inspector Mamoud Sadiq, traveling in two buses. The group reportedly arrived at the Illela border post around 8:00 p.m. on Friday.

“Upon their arrival, I instructed the Assistant Controller in charge of Human Resources, Adamu Mshelia, who also oversees the Anti-Smuggling Unit, to handle the proper documentation of the repatriated individuals,” Akuneme said.

Following the necessary procedures, the irregular migrants were handed over to Niger Republic police officers at the Birnin Konni control post. They underwent another round of screening and documentation before being officially received by the area’s Police Commissioner.

Meanwhile, Akuneme also revealed that construction work on both mega and mini Forward Operating Bases was ongoing at the Illela control post. This initiative, he noted, is part of efforts by the NIS Comptroller-General, Kemi Nandap, to combat irregular migration across Nigeria.

“The construction company has already commenced land clearance and demolition of old, unserviceable structures. We commend the CG for this infrastructure upgrade, which aligns with her mission to stem the tide of irregular migration,” he added.

Akuneme further assured that the Illela and Tangaza areas remain calm, with military and security personnel maintaining presence to address threats from Lakurawa bandits.