The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has announced that President Bola Tinubu's administration has achieved an impressive 80 percent success rate in anti-kidnapping operations.
This achievement comes within a short span of less than two years since the administration took office. Speaking at the inauguration of the Multi-Agency Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) at the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Abuja, Ribadu highlighted the sacrifices made by security agencies and the effective coordination by the Office of the National Security Adviser as key factors contributing to this success. "Within a short period of time, I can say less than two years, we are getting 80 percent successes, but we do not talk about it," Ribadu stated.
Despite these achievements, Ribadu acknowledged that kidnapping remains one of the most pressing security threats in Nigeria, causing untold hardship for countless families, disrupting economic activities, and posing a severe threat to national stability.
He emphasized the need for a robust, multi-agency approach to combat this menace, which the MAAKFC embodies.
The establishment of the MAAKFC is a result of a partnership between the United Kingdom's National Crime Agency (NCA) and Nigeria's National Security Adviser’s office.
This collaboration has led to capacity-building exercises and support for setting up the fusion cell, involving over 15 law enforcement agencies and stakeholders working together to fight kidnapping in the country.
Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of the NCTC, described the Fusion Cell as a "pivotal force in combating the menace of kidnapping by coordinating operational responses, analyzing data to track trends, and building the capacity of security personnel."
While the government celebrates this milestone, concerns persist as mass abductions continue to occur across the country.
Recent incidents include the abduction of 20 medical students from the University of Maiduguri and the University of Jos in Otukpo, Benue State, and the kidnapping of 287 pupils from a government secondary school in Kuriga, Kaduna State.
President Bola Tinubu, who assumed office in 2023, had promised to end terrorism and general insecurity in Nigeria.
However, reports indicate that banditry and kidnapping for ransom have continued to thrive, particularly in the North-West region.
As the government works towards further reducing the incidence of kidnapping, the NSA urged the personnel of the MAAKFC to embrace synergy and leverage their expertise to protect Nigerians and communities.
"The federal government recognizes the importance of your work, and I remain committed to providing the resources and backing needed to enable you to succeed," Ribadu assured.
The Operations Manager of the National Crime Agency of the United Kingdom, Chris Crimsom, emphasized the importance of public cooperation in ensuring the success of the MAAKFC. "With the buying-in of the public, with time we will see the results of what we do," he said.
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