SBM Intelligence’s latest report indicates that from July 2025 to June 2026, nearly 8,000 people were kidnapped in Nigeria.
The total confirmed ransom payments soared to $5.8 million.
The report raises concerns that kidnapping is evolving into more than just a criminal activity.
The money from ransoms is increasingly being used to support terrorism, such as purchasing weapons, recruiting individuals, and managing logistics.
On average, about 21 kidnappings are reported daily in Nigeria.
Additionally, the report points out that the ransom money paid by families is not only benefiting criminal gangs but is also increasingly funding terrorism.
Despite the government’s strict measures to address the rampant kidnappings, the crime has become a lucrative business and a common occurrence.
