The Plateau State Police Command has confirmed the death of three security operatives following an attack on the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, in the early hours of Monday, describing the incident as a tragic development that has prompted heightened security measures around the institution.
The command disclosed the details in an information update issued in Jos on Tuesday and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo.
According to the statement, the attack targeted security personnel on duty at the prestigious policy and leadership training institution located in Kuru, near Jos, the Plateau State capital.
“The Plateau State Police Command, on a very sad note, wishes to confirm the incident that occurred in the early hours of today, 16th June 2026, involving security personnel on duty at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, Kuru,” the statement read.
The command expressed deep regret over the loss of lives, revealing that three security operatives paid the ultimate price during the attack.
“Regrettably, three security personnel lost their lives during the incident,” the police spokesperson stated.
Although the police did not immediately provide details regarding the identity of the attackers, the circumstances surrounding the assault, or the exact sequence of events that led to the fatalities, authorities assured the public that swift security measures had been implemented to prevent any further threat to lives and property.
Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, CP Bassey Ewah, reportedly ordered an immediate reinforcement of security personnel around the institute and its surrounding communities.
The police disclosed that additional security operatives had been deployed to the area while routine patrols were significantly intensified to strengthen surveillance and reassure residents.
According to SP Alabo, the command has taken proactive steps to ensure that the situation remains under control and that the institution continues its operations without disruption.
“Security reinforcements have been deployed, and patrols have been intensified around the general area by the Commissioner of Police, CP Bassey Ewah,” the statement noted.
The police further emphasized that calm had been restored to the area following the attack and that there was no immediate threat to residents or staff of the institution.
Authorities encouraged members of the public to remain peaceful and continue with their daily activities without fear.
“The situation is under control and normal activities have resumed,” the statement added.
The command also reassured residents that security agencies are working collaboratively to uncover the circumstances surrounding the attack and bring those responsible to justice.
According to the police, a full-scale investigation has commenced, with detectives and other security operatives gathering intelligence and evidence that could assist in identifying the perpetrators.
“Investigation is ongoing. The command urges members of the public to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses,” the statement said.
While the police have yet to disclose possible motives behind the attack, security analysts have described the incident as a serious security breach, given the strategic importance of the institution involved.
NIPSS Kuru occupies a unique position within Nigeria’s governance and policy architecture. Established as the nation’s foremost policy think tank and leadership training institution, it provides high-level training for senior government officials, military officers, policymakers, academics, diplomats, and private-sector leaders.
Over the decades, the institute has played a critical role in shaping public policy, leadership development, and strategic planning across Nigeria.
The institution regularly hosts participants from various sectors of national life and is widely regarded as one of the country’s most prestigious centres for policy formulation and executive education.
As a result, any security incident involving the facility is likely to attract national attention and concern.
Observers note that attacks targeting security personnel at such a strategic institution are rare, making the latest incident one of the most significant security challenges the facility has faced in recent years.
The development has also renewed conversations about the need for enhanced security around critical national assets and institutions, particularly those involved in governance, research, and strategic planning.
Although no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, security agencies are expected to explore all possible leads as part of their ongoing investigation.
Residents of Kuru and surrounding communities have reportedly expressed concern over the incident but welcomed the rapid deployment of additional security personnel to the area.
The police have urged members of the public to cooperate with investigators by providing useful information that may assist ongoing efforts to apprehend those behind the attack.
Authorities also reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property across Plateau State and ensuring that criminal elements do not undermine peace and security in the region.
As investigations continue, the Plateau State Police Command has pledged to keep the public informed of significant developments.
“Further updates will be communicated in due course,” the police spokesperson said.
The tragic loss of the three security operatives has drawn sympathy from residents and stakeholders across the country, with many calling for a thorough investigation and stronger measures to safeguard personnel assigned to protect strategic national institutions.
For now, security remains heightened around NIPSS Kuru as law enforcement agencies intensify efforts to uncover the perpetrators and prevent any recurrence of such an attack.
