NYSC Member Killed in Abuja Crossfire

ABUJA, NIGERIA — A serving National Youth Service Corps member, Abdulsamad Jamiu, has died after being caught in a crossfire between Nigerian Army troops and suspected armed robbers in the Federal Capital Territory.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Shagari Estate in Dei-Dei, Abuja, when soldiers from the Guards Brigade Quick Response Group responded to a distress call over an ongoing armed robbery attack.

Upon reaching the scene, the troops faced resistance as the fleeing suspects opened fire, leading to a brief but fierce gun battle.

According to the Acting Army spokesperson, Lieutenant Olawuyi Odunola, the situation was highly volatile as the soldiers worked to repel the attackers and restore safety to the neighbourhood.

“In the course of the engagement, Mr. Jamiu was caught in the crossfire,” Odunola stated.

Despite immediate efforts by the troops to secure the area, the young corps member succumbed to his injuries.

The Guards Brigade described the loss as heartbreaking, noting that it has deeply affected personnel involved in the operation.

The deceased’s remains have since been handed over to civil authorities and deposited at Kubwa General Hospital.

The Nigerian Army has launched a full investigation into the circumstances of the shooting to establish clarity and ensure accountability.

“We remain committed to transparency and accountability and findings will be made available in due course,” Odunola assured.

Leadership of the Guards Brigade, along with officers and men, extended heartfelt condolences to Jamiu’s family, the NYSC, and all those affected by the tragedy.

NaijaChoice News understands that the incident has once again highlighted the risks faced by ordinary citizens and corps members amid rising criminal activities in parts of the FCT.

The Army pledged to review its operational procedures to better protect civilians while continuing to confront criminal elements threatening public peace.

This unfortunate incident serves as a sobering reminder of the human cost of the battle against insecurity in Nigeria’s capital.