Nigeria Records 16.3% Drop in Kidnapping Cases, Launches 112 Emergency Line.
The Federal Government has launched a toll-free emergency number, 112, enabling Nigerians to report kidnappings and other security-related threats. This move is part of broader efforts to address the rising issue of ransom-driven abductions across the country.
Major General Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), announced this during a press conference in Abuja on Thursday. The briefing focused on the activities of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell, operating under the Office of the National Security Adviser.
Laka stated, “The Nigerian Communications Commission has established an emergency response number, 112. We urge all Nigerians to use this toll-free line to report suspicious activities, crimes, and kidnappings. Additionally, the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell will provide designated contact numbers for the public.”
He emphasized that kidnapping for ransom remains a significant challenge, requiring collective and innovative approaches from all stakeholders. While progress was made in 2024, he stressed the need for continued commitment to reduce the threat in 2025.
According to Laka, Nigeria saw a 16.3% reduction in kidnapping incidents in 2024 compared to 2023. However, the number of victims increased slightly by 0.27%. The North-West region, particularly Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara states, accounted for 13.8% of total incidents and 61.1% of nationwide victims.
READ: AI for All: Federal Government of Nigeria Launches AI Academy Program 2025, Apply Now
He highlighted that bandits, terrorists, cultists, militants, and secessionist groups continue to use kidnapping as a means to generate funds and support illegal activities. “In 2024, kidnappings occurred in both rural and urban areas, targeting villages, schools, highways, and residential neighborhoods. Despite efforts to curb the crime, mass abductions persisted, leading to abandoned farmlands, disrupted food production, and rising food prices. The continued payment of ransoms has further incentivized perpetrators, who exploit families’ fears to demand large sums.”
Laka explained that the government has employed both kinetic (military) and non-kinetic (diplomatic and socio-economic) strategies to combat kidnapping. These efforts have yielded positive results, including the rescue of hostages, the arrest and neutralization of kidnapping leaders, and the destruction of criminal hideouts.
Looking ahead to 2025, he revealed plans to strengthen and expand counter-kidnapping initiatives across all six geo-political zones. “Kidnapping for ransom is expected to persist due to its financial appeal. To address this, the government will enhance counter-kidnapping measures, improve collaboration with state governments, build public trust in government protection to discourage ransom payments, and work with states to tackle unemployment and economic challenges that drive individuals to crime,” Laka added.
Nigeria Records 16.3% Drop in Kidnapping Cases, Launches 112 Emergency Line.
Professional freelancer and webmaster.
+ There are no comments
Add yours