Seventeen police officers died in a terrorist attack on Saturday. They were undergoing specialised combat training at the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Yobe State.
Suspected fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) launched the coordinated overnight assault. The attackers targeted military formations across the state.
Nigeria Police Force spokesman ACP Anthony Placid confirmed the deaths in a statement. He said the officers were participating in advanced operational training when insurgents struck.
Security sources reported that assailants attacked from multiple directions under cover of darkness. Troops from Operation Hadin Kai engaged them in fierce combat.
The soldiers eventually repelled the assault with heavy firepower. Several Nigerian Army personnel also died during the battle, according to Placid.
"The officers paid the supreme price in service to the nation," Placid's statement read. It described the location as the Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun called the slain officers courageous and dedicated. He said they were committed to strengthening national security.
The fallen personnel had enrolled in advanced counter-terrorism and tactical training programmes. These courses aimed at boosting operations against insurgents in the North-East region.
Egbetokun extended condolences to bereaved families. He promised that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
Yobe State Commissioner of Police Usman Jibrin visited the training facility on behalf of police leadership. He wanted to console affected personnel and surviving trainees.
During his visit, Jibrin met with School Commandant A.C. Enuagu and army authorities.
He also spoke directly with officers who survived the attack.
Jibrin encouraged remaining trainees to stay focused on their programme. He urged them to complete the training in honour of fallen colleagues.
According to Placid, the police leadership pledged renewed commitment to justice. The force will work with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to apprehend perpetrators.
"Nigerians can be assured that this matter won't be left unresolved," the spokesman noted. Security agencies intend to sustain efforts bringing attackers to account.
