A recent report has revealed that between July 2023 and June 2024, Nigerians paid N1.048 billion in ransom to kidnappers.

The report by SBM Intelligence indicates that a total of 7,568 individuals were abducted across the country during this period.

SBM Intelligence, a prominent geopolitical research consultancy focused on Africa, highlighted the severity of the kidnapping crisis in Nigeria in its report titled “Grim Reaping.”

The report notes that although kidnappers initially demanded N11 billion in ransom, only N1.048 billion was actually paid.

It attributes the rise in kidnapping for ransom to the country’s economic challenges, which have led kidnappers to target a broader range of victims. The report also emphasizes that the ransom payments reflect the financial capabilities of victims’ families rather than their negotiating prowess.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) recorded the highest ransom demands, with Lagos and Kaduna following closely. The South East region was noted for having the highest amount of ransom paid and the most successful collections.

Additionally, the report highlighted a troubling trend where kidnappers demand in-kind payments, such as food, drinks, cigarettes, or motorcycles, depending on the region.

Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina states reported the highest number of kidnapping incidents and victims, with Zamfara alone recording 132 incidents involving 1,639 victims. The report also revealed that kidnapping has become increasingly lethal, with 1,056 deaths recorded in 1,130 incidents over the past year.

The report further underscores that while the southern regions of Nigeria have seen only a modest increase in kidnapping incidents, the northern regions have experienced a sharp escalation in such crimes. Women have also been increasingly targeted in these abductions.