Nigeria is expanding its intelligence-led counter-kidnapping framework as the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), advances a nationwide strategy to integrate security agencies, strengthen operational coordination and disrupt organised kidnapping networks.
This was disclosed during the inauguration of the second edition of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) State Expansion Programme and stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja.
The initiative is being implemented by the NCTC with support from the United Kingdom National Crime Agency (UK-NCA), according to a statement by the Head of Strategic Communication, NCTC, Abu Michael.
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The five-day programme, scheduled for July 6 to 10, 2026, brings together security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies, as well as relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies and international partners, to strengthen Nigeria’s response to kidnapping.
Representing the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Coordinator of NCTC, Major General Adamu Garba Laka, described kidnapping as one of Nigeria’s most complex security threats, noting that criminal networks are increasingly exploiting technology, intelligence gaps and cross-jurisdictional operations.
He said the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell has improved intelligence integration, geospatial analysis, operational coordination and information sharing among security agencies, contributing to successful rescue operations and disruption of kidnapping syndicates.
Major General Laka stressed the need for sustained collaboration to close operational gaps, urging stakeholders to harmonise procedures, strengthen investigative and prosecution processes and develop practical recommendations to enhance the national anti-kidnapping framework.
The programme is also expected to deepen coordination between state operational commanders and the Fusion Cell, ensuring that intelligence generated at the grassroots is effectively integrated into national operations.
Speaking at the event, the United Kingdom National Crime Agency’s International Liaison Officer, Matt Mountain, reaffirmed support for Nigeria’s efforts to tackle organised crime through technical assistance and capacity building.
He noted that responses to kidnapping often begin at the state level, stressing that stronger links between state commands and the Fusion Cell would improve intelligence sharing, operational coordination and rescue outcomes.
Earlier, the Director of Intelligence, Brigadier General Peter Gbor, said kidnapping has become a major source of funding for terrorist and organised criminal groups, underscoring the importance of intelligence integration.
He added that the Fusion Cell, operationalised on December 19, 2024, serves as a central platform for coordinating intelligence and providing advanced technical support to security agencies.
According to him, participants in the programme will undergo specialised training based on the United Nations Kidnap Manual, while also reviewing standard operating procedures and terms of reference to strengthen nationwide operational effectiveness.
