Nigeria Kidnappings Surge

a { color: #880000 !important; background: #ffeeee !important; } Latest News from NourishThe Nourish Mission (formerly OneSub)Get answers to today's big questionsNigeria Kidnappings SurgeAfrica > securityRecent kidnappings in Nigeria's Kwara, Niger, and Plateau states highlight worsening security. Traditional ruler and residents are abducted for ransom, with demands reaching hundreds of millions of naira. Meanwhile, the release of schoolchildren abducted in November continues, but insecurity persists across the country.

What's happened

Recent kidnappings in Nigeria's Kwara, Niger, and Plateau states highlight worsening security. Traditional ruler and residents are abducted for ransom, with demands reaching hundreds of millions of naira. Meanwhile, the release of schoolchildren abducted in November continues, but insecurity persists across the country.

What's behind the headline?

The recent surge in kidnappings reveals a deeply entrenched security crisis in Nigeria. The demands for large ransoms, such as ₦150 million for the traditional ruler and ₦300 million for other victims, indicate that criminal groups are increasingly organized and financially motivated. The abduction of a traditional ruler and residents in Kwara State, coupled with ongoing attacks in Plateau and other regions, shows that no area is immune. The government’s denial of ransom demands by police officials contrasts sharply with the reality of escalating demands, suggesting a possible underreporting or reluctance to acknowledge the full scope of the crisis. The pattern of targeting schools and community leaders not only destabilizes local governance but also instills widespread fear, which could undermine social cohesion. The release of schoolchildren in December, while a positive development, does not signal an end to the violence. Instead, it highlights the persistent threat posed by armed groups, who continue to operate with impunity. The future of Nigeria’s security landscape depends on comprehensive strategies that go beyond reactive measures, including community engagement, intelligence sharing, and tackling the economic incentives fueling these crimes. Without decisive action, the cycle of kidnapping and ransom will likely intensify, further destabilizing the country.

What the papers say

All Africa reports on the kidnapping of a traditional ruler and residents in Kwara State, with ransom demands reaching ₦450 million. The articles highlight the ongoing insecurity and the government's denial of ransom requests, contrasting with local security watch reports confirming demands. Meanwhile, multiple sources detail the release of schoolchildren abducted in November, emphasizing the scale of the crisis. Sky News and The Independent provide emotional accounts of the children’s reunions, illustrating the human toll. AFP and AP News report on the recent abductions near Zak village, linking them to a broader pattern of mass kidnappings across Nigeria. The Nigerian government’s official stance, as reported by police, denies ransom payments, but evidence suggests otherwise, revealing a complex and profitable kidnapping industry that continues to threaten national stability.

How we got here

Nigeria has faced a rising wave of kidnappings driven by armed gangs seeking ransom payments. The incidents often target schools, communities, and travelers, with a pattern of increasing frequency and scale. Authorities have struggled to contain the violence, which has become a profitable industry, with reports of over $1.66 million collected in ransom between July 2024 and June 2025.

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