Nigeria’s foremost policy think tank, the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, came under attack late Monday night as suspected gunmen attempted to breach the institute and gain access to residential quarters housing course participants.
The attack, which began around 11:00 p.m. on June 15, 2026, claimed the lives of two soldiers and a police officer who stood their ground to protect the nation’s elite policy school near Jos.
According to reports, the attackers tried to force their way into the institute and reach the accommodation of participants. However, security personnel stationed at the facility mounted a swift response, engaging the gunmen and preventing them from accessing the residential area.
Sources disclosed that the slain police officer served as an orderly to a retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, while the two soldiers were killed during the fierce exchange of gunfire.
Despite the deadly assault, no participant was abducted, as security operatives successfully repelled the attackers before they could penetrate the institute’s inner quarters.
Confirming the incident, NIPSS management said a security breach occurred in the vicinity of the institute in the early hours of Tuesday but assured the public that the situation was quickly brought under control.
In a statement signed by the Head of Public Affairs, Dr. Osime Samuel, mni, the institute said there was no threat to participants, staff, residents, or facilities, adding that normal activities were continuing as scheduled.
While investigations and manhunt operations have commenced, authorities are yet to determine the motive behind the attack.
For many observers, the incident highlights the growing risks faced by security personnel who continue to defend critical national institutions. Though the participants remain safe, three officers paid the ultimate price while protecting one of Nigeria’s most strategic centres for leadership and policy development.
