Overview
The Establishment of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru
The idea of creating a national institute for strategic studies in Nigeria began during the Second National Development Plan (1970–1974). The government set aside £4.897 million for what was then called the Nigerian Institute of Strategic Studies (NISS), to be managed by the Federal Ministry of Economic Development and Reconstruction. In 1973, Mr. J.O.E. Sagay was appointed to pioneer the project, but little progress was made before the plan ended.
The concept was revived in the Third National Development Plan (1975–1980) and transferred to the Cabinet Office. There were proposals to merge the NISS with a planned Interdisciplinary Research Centre, but this never happened. The Nigerian Institute of International Affairs also wanted NISS to function under its structure, yet the government decided that it should remain an independent body. Despite these efforts, the institute still existed only on paper.
The idea finally gained momentum under General Olusegun Obasanjo, who led Nigeria from 1976 to 1979. After the civil war, he believed the country needed strong and well-trained leaders to rebuild trust and promote unity. He wanted an institution that could bring top policymakers and managers together to think strategically about national development.
In January 1978, General Obasanjo set up a Steering Committee led by Rear Admiral Michael Adelanwa to explore the creation of such an institute. The committee studied similar institutions in Nigeria and abroad, including those in the United Kingdom, Belgium, and the United States. It concluded that Nigeria needed a distinct center for advanced policy and leadership training.
Following the committee’s report, the Federal Government approved the establishment of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies in 1979. Kuru in Plateau State was chosen as its location because of its peaceful environment, ideal for learning and reflection.
Since its founding, NIPSS has served as Nigeria’s top institution for policy research, leadership development, and strategic studies. It continues to train senior officials and promote ideas that support national unity and development.
Creation, Objectives, and Governance of NIPSS
Summary: Creation, Objectives, and Governance of NIPSS
The National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) was established by Decree No. 20 of January 1, 1979 as Nigeria’s premier institution for high-level policy reflection, research, and leadership development. Conceived as a national think-tank, the Institute was mandated to bring together distinguished academics, policymakers, and professionals to deliberate on critical issues affecting Nigeria and Africa within a rapidly changing global context.
Under Section 3 of the establishing decree, NIPSS is tasked with:
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Conducting advanced courses for top-level leaders to enhance strategic thinking and policy execution.
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Organizing seminars, workshops, and similar programmes to foster appreciation for long-term national planning.
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Mobilizing and utilizing intellectual talent to tackle complex national challenges through interdisciplinary research.
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Publishing and disseminating knowledge to improve both national and international understanding.
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Undertaking any additional initiatives necessary to advance its mission.
In performing these roles, the Institute is required to operate objectively, non-partisanly, and independently of political interests.
The decree also outlines its governance structure in Section 2, placing authority in a Board of Governors responsible for approving long-range plans, academic programmes, research activities, and budgets. The Board comprises a Chairman appointed by the Federal Executive Council, key national leaders including the Chief of Defence Staff and Director-General of the Institute, and other eminent professionals selected for their expertise and ability to contribute to national development.
In essence, NIPSS was designed as Nigeria’s apex institution for strategic policy study and national transformation, uniting both wisdom and expertise in service of the nation.