The Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has confirmed the killing of one of its intelligence officers, Col. Abdulsalam Ude, following an attack by unidentified armed men at his residence in Abuja.

The Agency, in a statement issued by its Acting Assistant Director of Protocol, Capt. J.E. Oti, said the senior officer was attacked at his residence in Phase 5, Army Housing Estate, Kurudu, Abuja, on Tuesday.

“The Agency is deeply saddened by this unfortunate loss. The late senior officer served the nation with exceptional dedication, professionalism and unwavering commitment to the defence and security of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement said.

Although the DIA did not disclose details of the attack, reports indicated that the assailants attempted to abduct Col. Ude shortly after he arrived at his residence. He was said to have resisted the attackers despite being heavily outnumbered and was fatally shot during the encounter.

According to the reports, the gunmen ambushed the officer as he alighted from his vehicle after returning home on Monday evening and opened fire before attempting to whisk him away.

The DIA said security and law enforcement agencies had commenced a full investigation into the incident. Every effort is being made to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible.

“The Agency is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the incident are thoroughly investigated,” the statement added.

The Agency extended its condolences to the family of the deceased officer, his colleagues and members of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

“The Agency remains resolute in its constitutional mandate to safeguard Nigeria’s security and assures the public that it will continue to work with all relevant agencies to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice,” the statement said.

Late Col. Use, a native of Enugu State, was widely regarded as a dedicated professional and had been due for promotion to Brigadier General next year, according to reports.

Before his death, Ude was said to have held several strategic appointments in military intelligence and counter-terrorism within the Armed Forces.

He took part in numerous operations against insurgents in Nigeria’s North-East and served on specialised international assignments, including missions in Chad and France, where he contributed to intelligence and security cooperation efforts.