Security operatives thwarted another attack on the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, Plateau State, on Wednesday night, neutralizing one assailant during a fierce gun battle. The assault occurred around 11 p.m. when armed men attempted to breach the institute's outer security perimeter, according to security sources.
Swift Response by Security Forces
In a statement issued on Thursday, Osime Samuel, head of public affairs at NIPSS, confirmed that security personnel engaged the attackers in an exchange of gunfire. The coordinated response forced the assailants to retreat. “One of the assailants was neutralised during the encounter, while others fled, some with suspected gunshot injuries,” Samuel said. He emphasized that the attackers failed to gain access to the premises, and no participants of the Senior Executive Course, staff members, residents, or facilities were harmed.
Heightened Security Measures
This incident follows a similar foiled attempt just days earlier, prompting authorities to bolster security at the strategic facility. NIPSS has recently reinforced its layered security architecture, including deploying additional armed personnel, improving night surveillance, enforcing stricter access controls, and enhancing coordination with sister security agencies conducting joint patrols around Kuru and adjoining communities. Officials noted that these measures were implemented after intelligence reports indicated increased threats to critical national institutions in Plateau State.
Ongoing Security Reviews
Authorities confirmed that security reviews are ongoing to close any gaps and ensure sustained protection of the institute, which hosts senior public officials and policy leaders from across the country. The renewed assault underscores heightened security concerns in parts of Plateau State, where federal and state authorities have repeatedly pledged to strengthen protection around critical national institutions and other public facilities.
