President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the immediate and permanent reinforcement of security at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State, following a recent attack on the institution’s perimeter that claimed the lives of two soldiers and a police officer.
The directive was conveyed by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a visit to the institute on Friday, where he addressed participants of the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 48 on behalf of the President.
Shettima stated that the attack has further strengthened the Federal Government’s determination to safeguard critical national institutions, support security personnel, and prevent future security breaches.
Expressing the government’s condolences, the Vice President sympathised with the families of the fallen security operatives and assured them that the nation would honour their sacrifice.
“I come to you with a heavy heart and a firm spirit. A banditry attack on the perimeter of NIPSS claimed the lives of two gallant soldiers and one courageous policeman. To their families, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and the Nigeria Police Force, I extend our deepest condolences,” he said.
“We mourn with you. We share your pain. And we honour their sacrifice.”
Emergency Security Measures Activated
Shettima disclosed that President Tinubu had directed the immediate activation of emergency security measures at the institute, instructing the Director-General of NIPSS to collaborate with the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Department of State Services (DSS) to strengthen security around the facility.
According to him, the President has also ordered the submission of a comprehensive security reinforcement plan within 72 hours.
“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has directed that emergency security measures be activated at once. The Director-General is to coordinate with the Armed Forces, the Police, and the DSS to fortify the perimeter without delay,” Shettima stated.
He added that the action plan must address surveillance systems, personnel deployment, access control mechanisms, and emergency response infrastructure, while weekly progress reports will be submitted until the project is fully implemented.
“No future attack must find us unprepared,” he stressed.
NIPSS Remains a Strategic National Asset
Describing NIPSS as Nigeria’s foremost policy and leadership development institution, Shettima said its protection remains a matter of national importance.
He noted that while the attackers sought to instill fear and disrupt the training of future leaders, the incident instead showcased the resilience, courage, and discipline of staff, participants, and security personnel at the institute.
Addressing course participants and management, the Vice President reassured them of the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to their safety.
“Your safety is non-negotiable. The President has directed the immediate reinforcement of security around NIPSS and all strategic institutions. The sacrifice of those three brave men will not be in vain. Their children will be our children. Their welfare will be our responsibility,” he said.
Participants Praised for Courage Under Pressure
Commending participants of the Senior Executive Course 48, Shettima said they demonstrated the qualities expected of future national leaders by remaining calm and composed during the attack.
“When darkness came to the gates of this Institute, it expected to find people who would scatter into the night. Instead, it found men and women who stood their ground,” he remarked.
“You did not flee. You did not abandon your colleagues. You answered fear with courage and discipline.”
The Vice President also praised the Director-General of NIPSS, Professor Ayo Omotayo, for his leadership and prompt coordination with security agencies, which facilitated the rapid deployment of reinforcements and ensured the safety of staff and participants.
He equally commended the Director of Studies, Barrister Nima Salman Mann, for maintaining order and effectively coordinating emergency response efforts during the incident.
Plateau Government Backs Enhanced Security Measures
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its swift response and described Shettima’s visit as a demonstration of solidarity with the people of the state and the NIPSS community.
The governor approved requests by the institution for the establishment of a security buffer zone around the facility, alongside the installation of security lighting and other protective infrastructure.
He also paid tribute to the fallen security personnel and applauded the bravery of staff and participants who helped repel the attackers and prevent further incursion into the institution.
Call for More Security Infrastructure
In his remarks, NIPSS Director-General, Professor Ayo Omotayo, presented an incident report and appealed for additional security support, including increased personnel deployment and the installation of modern surveillance equipment such as CCTV cameras.
He noted that the attack highlighted the vulnerability of critical national institutions and underscored the urgent need for enhanced security architecture across strategic government facilities nationwide.
