The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) Sokoto State Command has reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering border security in response to the growing security threat posed by the Lakurawa sect.
The state Comptroller of the NIS, Yusuf Bage, made the statement during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Sokoto State Council on Monday.
Bage acknowledged the rising concerns surrounding the Lakurawa sect, describing it as a new and evolving security challenge, particularly within Sokoto State. He pointed out that members of the sect frequently enter the country via illegal routes, which exacerbates the risk to the region’s stability.
However, Bage assured the public that security agencies were actively staying ahead of the sect’s activities. “I want to assure the public that security agencies are ahead of them, and their activities will soon be curbed,” he stated.
As part of its constitutional mandate, the NIS is responsible for effective border management, including overseeing the monitoring of foreign nationals entering the country through airports and seaports. The NIS ensures proper identification and tracking of foreigners and closely monitors their movements within communities.
In a bid to enhance its operations, Bage revealed that the NIS had expanded its presence across the 23 local government areas of Sokoto State to increase visibility and maintain surveillance in every corner of the state. He also highlighted the strong collaboration between the NIS, the Nigerian Army, and other security agencies, aimed at ensuring the safety of residents.
The comptroller further emphasized the importance of media support in reinforcing security efforts, stating that the NIS would maintain a positive working relationship with journalists to ensure a safer environment for all.
Earlier, the state NUJ Chairman, Usman Binji, explained that the purpose of the visit was to formally introduce the new leadership of the state council. Binji stressed the vital role journalists play in fostering cooperation between security agencies and the public. He assured Bage that NUJ members were fully committed to supporting security agencies in their efforts to protect Nigeria’s territory and ensure the safety of Sokoto State.
