The Federal Government has launched the second phase of its Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Programme to strengthen intelligence sharing and coordination between federal and state security agencies as it steps up efforts to tackle kidnapping.
The expansion comes as authorities warn that kidnappers are becoming more sophisticated, using technology and operating across state boundaries, making the crime harder to combat through conventional security operations.
Coordinated by the National Counter Terrorism Centre under the Office of the National Security Adviser, with support from the United Kingdom National Crime Agency, the programme brings together security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies, government institutions and international partners to improve joint operations against kidnapping and organised crime.
Speaking on behalf of the National Security Adviser, National Coordinator of the NCTC, Major General Adamu Garba Laka said confronting the growing threat requires timely intelligence sharing, closer collaboration and coordinated action among security agencies.
He said the national anti-kidnap coordination platform has already improved information sharing and operational planning, helping security agencies disrupt kidnapping networks, rescue victims and strengthen criminal investigations.
Major General Laka said the latest phase will strengthen links between state operational commanders and the national coordination platform, while also addressing operational gaps exploited by criminal groups. Participants will receive specialised kidnap management training based on the United Nations Kidnap Manual and review existing procedures to improve responses nationwide.
The United Kingdom National Crime Agency reaffirmed its support for Nigerian-led efforts through technical cooperation and capacity building, saying stronger coordination between state and federal agencies will improve intelligence sharing, support victims’ families and increase the chances of rescuing victims and bringing offenders to justice.
