The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the killing of 17 officers following a deadly terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The officers were said to be undergoing specialised counter-terrorism and tactical operations training at the military institution when the attackers struck in the early hours of May 8, 2026.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Placid, disclosed that the terrorists launched a coordinated assault on the facility around 1:15am from different directions.
According to him, the officers died while responding to the attack alongside military personnel stationed at the training facility.
“The officers, who were undergoing specialised operational training at the institution, lost their lives when terrorists launched a coordinated attack on the facility from multiple directions at about 0115hrs,” the statement read.
The police also confirmed that several soldiers were killed during the confrontation as security personnel battled to repel the attackers.
Reacting to the incident, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, described the slain officers as courageous personnel committed to national security and professional service.
He expressed condolences to their families, colleagues and loved ones, assuring them that the sacrifice of the fallen officers would always be remembered.
“The sacrifices of the deceased officers will never be forgotten,” the IGP stated.
Following the attack, the Commissioner of Police in Yobe State, Usman Jibrin, visited the training school to sympathise with military authorities and surviving officers.
Jibrin urged officers still participating in the training programme to remain steadfast and complete their mission in honour of their fallen colleagues.
“The resilience and courage of the surviving officers are commendable, and they must remain resolute in completing their training,” he said.
The Force added that security agencies had intensified joint operations to track down those responsible for the attack and ensure they were brought to justice.
It also assured that the deceased officers would be duly honoured for their service and sacrifice to the country.