BREAKING: Gunmen Attack NIPSS, Kill Two Soldiers, Policeman

Suspected gunmen have attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, near Jos, Plateau State, killing two soldiers and a police officer during a late-night assault on the institution.

The attack, which reportedly occurred around 11:00 p.m. on Sunday, triggered panic within the country’s foremost policy and leadership training institution as security personnel engaged the assailants in a fierce exchange.

Sources familiar with the incident said the attackers attempted to breach the facility and gain access to the residential quarters occupied by participants attending programmes at the institute.

However, security operatives stationed at the institution reportedly mounted strong resistance, preventing the gunmen from advancing into the residential area.

According to preliminary reports, two soldiers and a police officer lost their lives while repelling the attack. The deceased police officer was said to be serving as an orderly to a retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police.

A source close to the institute disclosed that the swift response by security personnel prevented what could have resulted in a major security breach.

“The attackers were unable to gain access to the participants’ quarters because security forces responded promptly and successfully repelled them. No participant was abducted during the incident,” the source said.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear, and authorities have yet to officially confirm the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Security agencies have reportedly launched investigations and intensified efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the assault.

Following the attack, additional security personnel were deployed to the institution, while surveillance and patrol activities around the facility were significantly increased.

The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies is regarded as Nigeria’s highest policy think tank, bringing together senior military officers, government officials, academics and private sector leaders for strategic studies and national development programmes.

The incident has renewed concerns over the security of critical national institutions amid rising insecurity in different parts of the country.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the management of NIPSS nor relevant security authorities had issued an official statement regarding the attack, casualties, or the ongoing security operations around the institution.

Investigations into the incident are ongoing.