A recent report by SBM Intelligence, a geopolitical research and strategic communications firm focused on Africa, has found that Lagos ranks low among Nigerian states for kidnap-for-ransom cases, despite its large population and status as a major city.
The report, titled "Grim Reaping: Economics of Nigeria's Kidnap Industry - A 2024 Update," highlights that as economic difficulties worsen and more individuals fall into poverty, kidnapping for ransom is becoming a survival tactic for some. Between July 2023 and June 2024, Nigeria saw 7,568 kidnappings across 1,130 incidents. The states with the highest rates of kidnapping were Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina, with Zamfara reporting 132 incidents and 1,639 victims, along with 146 civilian deaths. Kaduna had 113 incidents with 1,113 victims, while Katsina recorded 119 incidents with 887 victims.
The report noted an alarming trend, stating that in the year reviewed, kidnapping became increasingly deadly, resulting in 1,056 fatalities linked to these incidents. On average, someone is killed with every attempted kidnapping.
In contrast, Lagos, home to approximately 24 million people and receiving over 100,000 visitors daily, reported only seven kidnapping cases. Additionally, for the fourth consecutive year, there have been no armed robbery attacks on financial institutions in Lagos, marking the longest such period in two decades.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stated that his administration is committed to working with security agencies to enhance public safety and foster an environment conducive to investment and socio-economic development, emphasizing that prioritizing security is crucial for the well-being of the population