Odita Sunday 
By Odita Sunday
The Federal Government has intensified efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks across Nigeria as the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), in collaboration with the United Kingdom National Crime Agency (UK-NCA), launched the second phase of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) State Expansion Programme in Abuja to strengthen intelligence-led operations and inter-agency coordination.
The initiative, announced in a statement on Thursday by Abu, I. Michael, Head of Strategic Communication, for the National Coordinator of NCTC-ONSA, brings together security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), as well as international partners, including the British High Commission, to review operational progress and reinforce Nigeria’s response to kidnapping and organised crime.
The programme runs from July 6 to July 10, 2026.
Speaking on behalf of the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Coordinator of the NCTC, Major General Adamu Garba Laka, said kidnapping remains one of Nigeria’s most serious security threats, with criminal groups increasingly deploying sophisticated tactics, exploiting technology and operating across multiple jurisdictions.
His address, delivered by the Director of Intelligence, Brigadier General Peter Gbor, noted that the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell has significantly enhanced intelligence integration, operational coordination, geospatial analysis and information-sharing among security agencies, leading to the disruption of kidnapping syndicates, successful rescue operations and improved investigative capabilities.
Major General Laka stressed that despite the gains recorded, sustained collaboration among security agencies remains critical to closing operational gaps exploited by criminal elements.
He urged participants to use the stakeholders’ meeting to review existing challenges, harmonise operational procedures, strengthen investigation and prosecution processes, and develop practical strategies to improve Nigeria’s capacity to prevent kidnapping and safeguard citizens.
Also speaking, the NCA International Liaison Officer, Mr. Matt Mountain, reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s fight against serious and organised crime through practical cooperation, professional exchange and capacity building.
He praised Nigerian security agencies for their professionalism and resilience in responding to kidnapping incidents, noting that effective kidnap response begins at the state level, where intelligence gathering, operational decisions and engagement with victims’ families are initiated.
According to him, strengthening the relationship between state commands and the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell will accelerate intelligence-sharing, improve operational coordination, enhance support for victims’ families and increase the success rate of rescue missions and criminal prosecutions.
Earlier, Brigadier General Peter Gbor, in his welcome address, described kidnapping as not only a major public safety challenge but also a significant source of funding for terrorist and organised criminal groups.
He recalled that the Fusion Cell, operationalised on December 19, 2024, by the National Security Adviser, has evolved into a critical platform for intelligence integration, coordinated response and technical support for security agencies nationwide.
Gbor explained that the second phase of the State Expansion Programme builds on the achievements of the inaugural rollout by strengthening communication channels between state operational commanders and the Fusion Cell.
He added that participants would receive intensive Kidnap Management Training based on the United Nations Kidnap Manual while reviewing the Cell’s Standard Operating Procedures and Terms of Reference to enhance operational effectiveness across the country.
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