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By Lizzy Chirkpi
Nigeria’s foremost policy and leadership institution, the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State, came under a daring armed attack in the early hours of Tuesday, leaving three security personnel dead and raising fresh concerns over the safety of strategic national assets.
The attackers reportedly stormed the staff quarters of the institute, targeting the residences of senior officials in what appeared to be a coordinated operation. At least two soldiers and a police officer attached to the facility were reportedly killed during a fierce gun battle with the assailants.
Sources familiar with the incident said the gunmen had earlier circulated handwritten threat letters to some senior NIPSS officials, demanding millions of naira and thousands of dollars in ransom before carrying out the attack.
Although the targeted officials were said to have escaped unharmed, the killing of the security operatives has heightened fears over the growing audacity of criminal gangs and armed groups operating across the country.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the institute confirmed that a security incident occurred around its premises in the early hours of the day but assured that the situation had been brought under control.
The statement, signed by the Head of the Public Affairs Department, Osime Samuel, said: “The situation was promptly brought under control through the swift response of security personnel and relevant security agencies. There is currently no threat to the safety of participants, staff, residents, or facilities of the Institute, and normal activities are continuing as scheduled.”
The institute’s management further reassured participants, residents and the general public that adequate security measures remain in place and that security agencies are actively monitoring the area to prevent any recurrence.
Located in Kuru, near Jos, Plateau State, NIPSS is Nigeria’s premier institution for policy research, strategic studies and leadership development. Established to shape public policy and train senior government officials, military officers, private sector leaders and other top decision-makers, the institute occupies a critical place in the country’s governance and national security framework.