Seventeen police officers undergoing specialised counter-terrorism training have been killed following a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The Nigeria Police Force disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, saying the incident occurred in the early hours of May 8, 2026.
According to the statement, the terrorists launched a coordinated attack on the military institution from multiple directions at about 1:15 a.m., leading to the death of 17 police officers who were participating in advanced operational training at the facility.
The police also confirmed that several personnel of the Nigerian Army lost their lives while repelling the attackers.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, described the slain officers as courageous and dedicated personnel who demonstrated exceptional patriotism and commitment to national security.
He said the officers were participating in advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training programmes aimed at strengthening the nation’s security architecture.
“The sacrifices of the deceased officers will never be forgotten,” the IGP stated while extending condolences to the bereaved families on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force.
As part of efforts to encourage surviving officers and show solidarity with the military institution, the Commissioner of Police in Yobe State, Usman Kanfani Jibrin, visited the school on behalf of the IGP.
During the visit, he commiserated with the Commandant of the institution, Brigadier General A.C. Enuagu, officers of the Nigerian Army, and police personnel still undergoing training at the school.
He also praised the resilience and bravery of the surviving officers and urged them to remain committed to completing the training programme in honour of their fallen colleagues.
The Nigeria Police Force assured Nigerians that it would continue to work closely with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to track down and bring those responsible for the attack to justice.
The Force further saluted the courage, sacrifice and dedication of the slain officers, noting that their service to the nation would remain honoured.
