Two Soldiers, Policeman Killed as Gunmen Storm NIPSS in Jos

Panic gripped the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) on Monday night after suspected gunmen launched a deadly attack on the institution, killing two soldiers and a police officer during an attempted breach of the facility.

The attack reportedly occurred at about 11:00 p.m. when the assailants stormed the institute and attempted to gain access to the residential quarters occupied by participants of the institute’s strategic programmes.

Sources familiar with the incident told newsmen that the attackers encountered stiff resistance from security personnel stationed at the facility, leading to a fierce exchange during which three security operatives lost their lives.

Those killed were identified as two military personnel and a police officer attached as an orderly to a retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police.

Despite the casualties, security operatives successfully prevented the attackers from accessing the residential area, thereby averting what could have been a major security breach.

A source close to the institution said the swift response by security personnel ensured that none of the participants residing within the facility was abducted or harmed.

“No participant was abducted because the security forces successfully repelled the attackers before they could enter the residential area,” the source disclosed.

NIPSS, located in Kuru near Jos Plateau State, is regarded as Nigeria’s highest policy and leadership training institution and regularly hosts senior government officials, military officers, academics and private sector leaders.

As of the time of filing this report, authorities had yet to issue an official statement detailing the circumstances surrounding the attack or the identity of the perpetrators.

Security has since been reinforced around the institution, while investigations and manhunt operations are reportedly underway to track down those responsible.

The incident adds to growing concerns over security challenges in parts of the country and is expected to trigger fresh discussions on the protection of strategic national institutions.