Executive Summary

Nigeria is one of the major kidnap-for-ransom hotspots in the world, despite having a strong law enforcement capability. The kidnappings are committed by religious actors, such as Boko Haram, and criminal actors, which are commonly referred to as “bandits.” Political elites in the country show no interest in fixing the issue, leading to a lack of action from law enforcement leaders, despite their capabilities. Meanwhile, in rural areas, mass kidnappings are persisting because of the lack of law enforcement presence. 

The kidnappings undermine businesses, worsening Nigeria’s economy and driving up prices. This pushes more people into poverty, fuelling a vicious cycle of poverty-driven crime, including more kidnappings.