By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to sustained counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in the North-East following a solemn prayer session held in honour of seventeen officers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty.
The officers were killed following a terrorist attack on the Nigerian Army Special Forces School in Buni Yadi, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State, in the early hours of 8th May, 2026.
The prayer session, which brought together senior police officers and personnel of the Force, was held as a mark of respect for the fallen operatives and as a moment of reflection on the sacrifices being made by security personnel engaged in ongoing operations across the country.
Speaking at the event, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, paid tribute to the slain officers, describing their deaths as a painful reminder of the risks borne daily by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly those deployed under the Police Mobile Force in joint operations with the Armed Forces and other security agencies.
He noted that the Force continues to maintain hundreds of officers deployed across the North-East theatre, operating in close coordination with sister security agencies in confronting terrorism, violent extremism, and other security threats.
“Our officers continue to put their lives on the line, often under extremely difficult conditions, so that every Nigerian family can sleep at night with a measure of safety and peace,” he said.
The Inspector-General stressed that the sacrifices of personnel of the Force reflect a deep sense of duty and patriotism, adding that their service remains anchored on the protection of lives and property.
“We want every Nigerian to feel, and to know in their hearts, that there are men and women in uniform who wake up every morning with one purpose: to serve, to protect, and if called upon, to give everything,” he stated.
The police boss also underscored the human cost of national security operations, noting that each fallen officer leaves behind grieving families and unfulfilled aspirations.
“Behind every fallen officer is a family left behind, a future cut short, and a nation that owes them an immeasurable debt of gratitude. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten, and we solemnly pledge that their deaths will not be in vain,” he said.
Reassuring Nigerians of the Force’s resolve, the Inspector-General affirmed that the Nigeria Police would remain steadfast in discharging its constitutional responsibility despite prevailing security challenges.
“The Nigeria Police Force will not waver. We will continue to show up, to stand firm, and to give our very best in service to this great nation,” he added.
He further extended condolences to the bereaved families, assuring them of the institution’s continued support and solidarity.
“To the families of our fallen heroes, the Nigeria Police Force stands with you in this painful moment. We share in your grief, and we remain committed to walking this difficult road alongside you,” he said.
The ceremony concluded with prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed officers and for divine protection for all security personnel engaged in ongoing national security operations.
“May the souls of our departed officers rest in perfect peace, and may God continue to protect all security personnel defending our nation,” IGP Disu prayed.
