The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) has reaffirmed its longstanding partnership with the Nigerian Army following a courtesy and appreciation visit by the Director-General of the Institute, Prof. Ayo Omotayo, to the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General EF Oyinlola, at the Division Headquarters .
Leading a delegation of senior staff of the Institute, the Director-General described the visit as both strategic and timely, noting that it provided an opportunity to strengthen the enduring relationship between the two institutions and to formally welcome Major General Oyinlola following his assumption of command. The meeting was attended by senior officers of the Division as well as members of staff of the National Institute.
During the engagement, Prof. Omotayo conveyed the condolences of the Institute to the Nigerian Army over the death of one of its personnel who was among the three security operatives killed during the attack on NIPSS by yet-to-be-identified assailants on June 15–16, 2026. He stated that the sacrifice of the fallen personnel in the defence of the Institute would remain indelibly etched in the memory of the NIPSS community.
The Director-General expressed profound appreciation to the GOC and the entire 3 Division for their swift and decisive response to the attack, noting that the prompt intervention of the military helped contain the situation and restore confidence within the Institute community. In a symbolic demonstration of gratitude, members of the NIPSS delegation offered a standing ovation and formally presented a letter of appreciation to the GOC on behalf of the Institute.
As part of discussions aimed at deepening collaboration, Prof. Omotayo requested that the GOC address participants of the Senior Executive Course to reassure them of the military’s continued commitment to the security of NIPSS. He also appealed for the sustained deployment of personnel and military assets currently stationed at the Institute following the security breach.
The Director-General further commended the courage and professionalism displayed by military officers participating in courses at NIPSS who reportedly played a leading role in resisting the attackers. He sought the support of the GOC in facilitating institutional recognition for the officers’ gallantry and exceptional conduct during the incident.
Responding, Major General Oyinlola emphasized the longstanding relationship between NIPSS and the Armed Forces, noting that both institutions share a common history, mutual respect, and a commitment to national development and security. He expressed regret over the loss of the security personnel during the attack, particularly the two soldiers and one police officer who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
The GOC reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the security and protection of NIPSS, assuring the delegation that the Institute remains a priority for the Division. On the issue of recognizing the officers who distinguished themselves during the attack, he advised that NIPSS formally write to Defence Headquarters and the officers’ respective services, detailing their contributions and recommending them for appropriate honours and commendations, including the Benue Star.
Major General Oyinlola also accepted the invitation to address participants of the Institute and pledged to do so at the earliest convenient opportunity, further underscoring the enduring partnership between NIPSS and the Nigerian Armed Forces .
