NIPSS Director-General Visits Gbong Gwom Jos, Issues Unreserved Apology and Reconciliation Pledge to Berom Nation

Timescope News 

Jos, Plateau State – In a significant move toward mending frayed relations, the Director-General of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Prof. Ayo Omotayo, has formally apologized to the Berom Nation and the people of Plateau State following controversial remarks made during a recent media interview.

The apology was delivered on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, during a courtesy and peace-building visit to the Gbong Gwom Jos and Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, His Royal Majesty, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, CFR.

Addressing the traditional ruler, members of the Plateau State Traditional Council, community leaders, and eminent members of the Berom Nation, Prof. Omotayo clarified that his earlier comments were never intended to assign blame or disparage any community. Acknowledging that his words had been misconstrued, causing distress and concern, he expressed deep regret and offered an unreserved apology.

"The Institute values its relationship with its host communities above all else," Prof. Omotayo stated. "NIPSS remains an integral part of Plateau State, and we are fully committed to the peace, unity, and stability of this region. Our ties are built on mutual respect, and I sincerely seek the understanding of His Royal Majesty and the entire Berom Nation."

Reaffirming the Institute’s dedication to its host community, the Director-General highlighted several ongoing social intervention programs. These include educational support schemes, youth empowerment through Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and digital skills training, mentorship initiatives in schools, and advocacy for girl-child education.

Addressing the region’s security challenges, Prof. Omotayo assured that NIPSS is working closely with relevant security agencies to ensure that investigations into recent incidents are thorough, professional, and impartial. He stressed the importance of preserving the dignity of all communities throughout the process.

Calling for calm and restraint, he urged all stakeholders to avoid inflammatory narratives that could heighten tensions, emphasizing that dialogue and collective responsibility are the only sustainable paths to lasting peace.

Accompanied by senior management staff of the Institute, the Director-General expressed gratitude to the royal father for his leadership and wisdom, pledging to deepen engagement with the Berom people to foster trust, inclusion, and social cohesion.

In his response, the Chairman of the Berom Elders Council, Dr. Dachollom Jambol, who spoke on behalf of the Gbong Gwom Jos, welcomed the spirit of reconciliation. He, however, appealed to the Plateau State Government to establish an independent panel to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the recent attacks. Dr. Jambol stressed that a thorough investigation is essential for uncovering the facts, ensuring justice, and securing durable peace in the region.

The visit underscores NIPSS's steadfast commitment to strengthening relationships with host communities as part of its broader mandate of promoting national unity and strategic leadership.