Vice President Kashim Shettima on Friday made an urgent on-the-spot assessment visit to the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) in Kuru, days after armed gunmen launched a deadly midnight assault on the institution, killing three security personnel.
The high-level visit underscores the Federal Government’s concern over the brazen attack on one of Nigeria’s most strategic policy and leadership training centres.
Shettima’s Assessment Tour
Shettima, accompanied by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other senior officials, was received by the Director-General of NIPSS, Professor Ayo Omotayo, and members of the institute’s management team.
During the visit, the Vice President toured affected areas, received detailed briefings on the security situation, and interacted with staff and participants currently undergoing programmes at the institute. He assured them of the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening security around NIPSS and similar critical national assets.
The Deadly Midnight Assault
The attack occurred in the early hours of Tuesday when gunmen stormed the staff quarters of NIPSS, engaging security operatives in a fierce gun battle. Two soldiers and one police officer on duty were killed during the exchange of fire. The assailants later fled into the surrounding bush.
The assault on NIPSS sent shockwaves across the country, as the institute is not just an ordinary training centre but Nigeria’s foremost policy think-tank, where senior government officials, military officers, traditional rulers, and technocrats are groomed for strategic leadership roles.
Security agencies have since arrested some suspects in connection with the attack, while investigations continue to determine the motive and bring all perpetrators to justice.
Strategic Importance of NIPSS
NIPSS was established in 1979 to serve as the apex policy and strategic studies institute in Nigeria. It plays a vital role in shaping national policy, conflict resolution, and leadership development. Many of the country’s top decision-makers have passed through its rigorous programmes. An attack on such an institution is therefore viewed as a direct challenge to the nation’s governance and intellectual foundation.
Vice President Shettima’s visit is being seen as a strong signal of the Federal Government’s resolve to protect critical national institutions and reassure the public that such attacks will not be tolerated.
As enhanced security measures are put in place around NIPSS, many Nigerians are watching to see whether this latest incident will lead to broader improvements in the protection of strategic assets across the country.
Source: Vanguard News
