The Nigeria Police Force has expressed deep sorrow over the death of 17 police officers who were killed during a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The officers, who were participating in specialised operational training at the military institution, lost their lives after terrorists launched a coordinated assault on the facility in the early hours of May 8, 2026.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, disclosed that the attackers invaded the training facility from different directions at about 1:15 a.m., resulting in a fierce gun battle between the terrorists and security personnel stationed at the school.
According to the statement, several officers and soldiers displayed exceptional bravery while confronting the attackers, but a number of personnel paid the supreme sacrifice during the encounter.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, described the slain officers as gallant and patriotic personnel who remained committed to protecting the nation through advanced tactical and counter-terrorism training programmes.
He said the fallen officers exemplified courage, discipline and dedication to national service, adding that their sacrifices would never be forgotten by the Police Force or the country at large.
The police chief also extended the condolences of the entire Nigeria Police Force to the families of the deceased officers, assuring them that the institution would continue to honour the memory and service of the fallen personnel.
“In further demonstration of solidarity and support, the Commissioner of Police, Yobe State Command, Mr Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the institution on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police,” the statement noted.
During the visit, the police commissioner commiserated with the Commandant of the Nigerian Army Special Forces School, Brigadier General A.C. Enuagu, officers of the Nigerian Army, and surviving police officers who were undergoing training at the institution.
He praised the resilience and courage displayed by the surviving officers despite the tragic incident and encouraged them to remain steadfast in completing the training programme in honour of their fallen colleagues.
The statement added that the Inspector-General reassured Nigerians that the Police Force, in collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, would intensify efforts to track down those responsible for the deadly attack and ensure they are brought to justice.
The attack has once again highlighted the persistent security challenges confronting parts of the North-East region, where terrorists and insurgent groups continue to target military formations, security personnel and civilian communities.
Security analysts have repeatedly stressed the need for stronger intelligence gathering, improved coordination among security agencies and better welfare and equipment for personnel engaged in counter-terrorism operations across the country.
The Nigeria Police Force, while mourning the deceased officers, paid tribute to their courage, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to duty, describing them as heroes who died in active service to the nation.
The Force reiterated its commitment to supporting ongoing military operations against terrorism and insurgency while ensuring that the sacrifices of fallen officers continue to inspire future generations of security personnel.
