Suspected gunmen on Monday night attacked the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, near Jos in Plateau State, killing two soldiers and a police officer in an assault that threw Nigeria’s foremost policy institution into panic.
The attack, which reportedly occurred at about 11 p.m. on June 16, 2026, was said to have targeted the institute’s residential area where participants of the Senior Executive Course are accommodated.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers attempted to force their way into the facility but met stiff resistance from security personnel stationed at the institute.
According to a witness, two soldiers and a police officer lost their lives during the exchange of gunfire with the assailants.
“The gunmen came late at night and tried to gain access to the residential quarters. The security personnel engaged them immediately. Two soldiers and a policeman were killed in the process,” the source said.
The deceased police officer was reportedly serving as an orderly attached to a retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police who was among those associated with activities at the institute.
Sources familiar with the incident said the swift response of the security operatives prevented what could have turned into a major tragedy.
“No participant was abducted because the security forces successfully repelled the attackers before they could enter the residential area,” one of the sources disclosed.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities had yet to issue an official statement on the incident, while the exact motive behind the attack remained unclear.
Security sources, however, disclosed that reinforcement had been deployed to the area, while investigations and manhunt operations had commenced to track down those responsible for the assault.
The attack has raised fresh concerns over the security of strategic national institutions and the growing boldness of armed groups operating in different parts of the country.
NIPSS, located in Kuru, about 30 kilometres from Jos, the Plateau State capital, is regarded as Nigeria’s highest institution for policy formulation, strategic studies and leadership training. Established in 1979, the institute brings together top military officers, senior civil servants, politicians, academics and private sector leaders for high-level training aimed at shaping national policies.
Participants of its flagship Senior Executive Course often include individuals occupying sensitive positions in government and the security sector. The institute has, over the years, hosted distinguished Nigerians and foreign participants involved in strategic decision-making.
Although Plateau State has witnessed relative calm in recent months compared to previous years, the state has continued to grapple with recurring security challenges, including attacks by armed groups, communal clashes and incidents of kidnapping.
The latest assault on NIPSS is likely to heighten fears about the vulnerability of critical institutions and the safety of individuals undergoing training at such facilities.
Residents around Kuru said they were awakened by sounds of gunfire that lasted for several minutes, creating panic in the community.
Some residents expressed concern over the attack, calling on security agencies to strengthen surveillance and intelligence gathering to prevent similar incidents.
The incident also highlights the sacrifices made daily by security personnel who risk their lives in the line of duty.
As investigations continue, Nigerians are expected to look to the relevant authorities for answers regarding the motive behind the attack and measures being taken to prevent a recurrence.
For now, participants at the institute are said to be safe, thanks largely to the resistance mounted by the security operatives who paid the ultimate price while defending the facility.