Nigeria's Kidnapping Crisis: 7,825 Victims in One Year

Between July 2025 and June 2026, Nigeria experienced a severe kidnapping crisis, with 7,825 victims reported across 1,411 incidents, primarily in northern states. According to SBM Intelligence's August 2026 report titled "The Capture of Nigeria’s Kidnap Economy," Benue recorded 145 victims from 32 incidents and conducted 26 anti-kidnap operations, resulting in 15 civilian deaths.

Kebbi had 216 victims across 52 incidents, with five anti-kidnap operations and 33 civilian deaths. Kwara reported 265 victims from 89 incidents, the highest ransom demand of N7.375 billion, and 50 civilian deaths.

Kogi recorded 412 victims and 21 anti-kidnap operations, while Niger had 496 victims and accounted for N2 billion in ransom payments. The report was compiled through desk research and interviews, drawing on publicly available data from various sources.