Attack on NIPSS Leaves Three Security Personnel Dead

Security forces repelled an overnight attack near Nigeria’s leading policy institute, preventing access to participants and staff.

The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, near Jos, came under attack on Monday night, June 15, 2026, after suspected gunmen attempted to breach the facility. Three security personnel, including two soldiers and one police officer, were reportedly killed during the exchange of fire.

The incident began around 11:00 p.m., according to initial reports. The attackers reportedly tried to gain access to the institute and move towards the residential area where course participants were staying.

Sources said the police officer killed in the attack was an orderly attached to a retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, while the two soldiers died during the confrontation with the attackers.

Security personnel stationed at the institute responded quickly and stopped the attackers from reaching the participants’ accommodation area. No participant was abducted during the incident, as security forces successfully blocked further access.

A source familiar with the situation said, “No participant was abducted because the security forces successfully repelled the attackers before they could enter the residential area.”

The NIPSS security incident was later confirmed by the institute in a statement issued on Tuesday, June 16. The management described it as a “security incident occurred in the vicinity of the Institute in the early hours of today.”

The institute’s Head of Public Affairs, Dr Osime Samuel, mni, said the situation was quickly controlled through the response of security personnel and relevant agencies. He assured the public that there was no current threat to participants, staff, residents or facilities, adding that normal activities had continued.

NIPSS said investigations were ongoing and warned against relying on unverified reports circulating online. The institute advised members of the public and the media to follow official updates from the organisation and security agencies.

Following the NIPSS security incident, security has reportedly been strengthened around the facility while authorities begin investigations and search operations. The motive behind the attack remains unclear.

NIPSS is a key institution responsible for training senior government officials, military officers and policy leaders. The attack has raised renewed concerns about security around important national institutions.

How can Nigeria better protect critical institutions from security threats while ensuring public confidence?