7,825 victims, N7.78bn ransom: Inside Nigeria’s growing kidnap-for-ransom economy

BusinessDay | 06-10-2026 04:48am |

Kidnapping has become a lucrative criminal enterprise in Nigeria, with ransom payments running into billions of naira and abductions spreading across the country. A report reveals that 7,825 victims were kidnapped and N7.78 billion was paid in ransom. The growing kidnap-for-ransom economy highlights the increasing threat to safety and security.

Stay Updated with the Latest News!

Don't miss out on breaking stories and in-depth articles.