Nigerian Kidnappers Collect N2.57bn Ransom in 1 Year, Report Reveals Surge in Abductions

A report revealed that kidnappers in Nigeria collected N2.57 billion in ransom over a year, with over 4,700 people abducted in 997 incidents. The Northwest region accounted for 42.6% of total cases, with Zamfara state having the highest number of victims.

Kidnapping has evolved into a profit-driven enterprise thriving in poorly governed rural areas. The report highlighted the surge in ransom demands, with the actual value realized in dollar terms remaining modest due to the depreciating naira.

The Southwest region recorded the lowest level of kidnapping activities.