FG EXPANDS ANTI-KIDNAP FUSION CELL, REVIEWS STRATEGY TO BOOST SECURITY
Read Time:2 Minute, 23 Second
By; Sunmola Ganiyat
The Federal Government has reviewed its anti-kidnapping strategy and commenced the second phase of the expansion of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell to states as part of efforts to strengthen intelligence sharing and improve coordinated responses to kidnapping nationwide.
The initiative was unveiled by the National Counter Terrorism Centre under the Office of the National Security Adviser, with support from the United Kingdom National Crime Agency, during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja.
According to a statement issued by the NCTC’s Head of Strategic Communication, Abu Michael, the programme brings together security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies, as well as government institutions and international partners, to evaluate progress and strengthen Nigeria’s response to kidnapping.
Representing the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the National Coordinator of the NCTC, Adamu Garba Laka, described kidnapping as one of Nigeria’s most serious security threats.
He said criminal groups have continued to adopt more sophisticated tactics, leveraging technology and operating across multiple jurisdictions, making stronger inter-agency cooperation essential.
According to him, the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell has improved intelligence integration, operational coordination, geospatial analysis and information sharing among security agencies.
Laka noted that the platform has contributed to disrupting kidnapping networks, improving investigations and supporting successful rescue operations.
Despite the progress recorded, he stressed that security agencies must continue working together to close operational gaps that criminal elements exploit.
The programme also seeks to harmonise operational procedures, strengthen investigative and prosecution processes, and develop practical strategies for preventing kidnappings and protecting citizens.
Speaking at the event, the International Liaison Officer of the UK National Crime Agency, Matt Mountain, reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts against kidnapping and organised crime.
He praised Nigerian security agencies for their professionalism and dedication, noting that effective responses to kidnapping often begin at the state level where intelligence gathering and engagement with victims’ families first occur.
Mountain said closer collaboration between state commands and the Fusion Cell would improve intelligence sharing, operational efficiency, victim support and the successful prosecution of offenders.
He also pledged continued UK support through capacity building, professional exchanges and practical cooperation while respecting Nigeria’s leadership in addressing its security challenges.
Earlier, the Director of Intelligence, Peter Gbor, warned that kidnapping has evolved beyond a public safety issue and has become a major source of funding for terrorist and organised criminal groups.
He explained that the Fusion Cell, which became operational in December 2024, serves as a critical platform for intelligence integration, coordinated responses and technical support for security agencies.
According to Gbor, the second phase of the expansion programme is designed to strengthen communication between state operational commanders and the Fusion Cell, while participants will also undergo specialised kidnap management training based on the United Nations framework and review existing operational procedures to improve effectiveness nationwide.
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