By Mahmoud Muhammad Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed a complete security overhaul within 72 hours following a deadly bandit attack near the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS, Kuru, Plateau State. The order came hours after reports of casualties and disruption around the premier institution.
Gunmen suspected to be bandits reportedly struck communities and routes leading to NIPSS Kuru, an institute that trains Nigeria’s top policymakers and senior officials. The assault caused panic among staff, course participants, and residents, with several people killed and property destroyed.
In a statement from the Presidency, Tinubu ordered the Service Chiefs, IGP, and intelligence agencies to present a comprehensive action plan within 72 hours. The plan must cover immediate reinforcement, surveillance of forest corridors, and better coordination between Army, Police, NSCDC, and local vigilantes.
NIPSS Kuru is regarded as Nigeria’s “policy think tank.” An attack near its premises is symbolic and raises concern about the reach of armed groups. Analysts say insecurity around strategic institutions undermines governance and discourages investment in the North-Central.
NIPSS Kuru is regarded as Nigeria’s “policy think tank.” An attack near its premises is symbolic and raises concern about the reach of armed groups. Analysts say insecurity around strategic institutions undermines governance and discourages investment in the North-Central.
Plateau State has battled cycles of banditry, farmer-herder clashes, and kidnappings for years. Communities around Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and Jos South have repeatedly reported attacks on highways and villages. The NIPSS incident adds pressure on federal and state authorities to act decisively.
Following Tinubu’s order, Operation Safe Haven and police tactical units began increased patrols around Kuru, Gashish, and connecting roads. Air surveillance was also deployed. Security sources say the 72-hour window will be used to identify escape routes, dismantle hideouts, and arrest suspects.
Experts note that kinetic response alone won’t end banditry. They urge stronger intelligence gathering, community policing, and cutting off logistics chains that fund attacks. Traditional rulers and local leaders are expected to work with security agencies to provide timely information.
The 72-hour ultimatum now puts security agencies under public scrutiny. Nigerians will watch for arrests, recovery of weapons, and visible improvement around NIPSS and nearby villages. For Tinubu, the directive is both a security order and a political message: strategic institutions and citizens must be protected without delay.
Special reports by Editor -in-Chief MAHMOUD MUHAMMAD kano
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