Kidnapping: FG, UK Boost Multi-Agency Intelligence Operations
The Federal Government, in partnership with the United Kingdom, has stepped up intelligence-led efforts to combat kidnapping and organised crime with the expansion of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC), aimed at strengthening collaboration among security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies.
The initiative is expected to enhance intelligence sharing, operational coordination and investigative capabilities to improve Nigeria’s response to kidnapping across the country.
The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), with the support of the UK National Crime Agency (UK-NCA), inaugurated the Second Edition of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell State Expansion Programme and Stakeholders’ Meeting in Abuja. The five-day programme, which began on Monday, brings together representatives of security and intelligence agencies, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), as well as international partners, including the British High Commission.
Speaking on behalf of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Coordinator of the NCTC, Major General Adamu Garba Laka, described kidnapping as one of Nigeria’s most pressing security challenges, noting that criminal groups were increasingly deploying sophisticated tactics, exploiting technology and operating across multiple jurisdictions.
Represented by the Director of Intelligence at the NCTC, Brigadier General Peter Gbor, Laka said the evolving threat required sustained inter-agency collaboration, timely intelligence sharing and coordinated operational responses.
He said the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell had significantly improved intelligence integration, operational coordination, geospatial analysis and information sharing among security agencies, leading to the disruption of kidnapping networks, successful rescue operations and strengthened investigative capabilities.
According to him, although significant progress has been recorded, sustained collaboration remains critical to closing operational gaps exploited by criminal elements.
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Laka urged participants at the stakeholders’ meeting to critically assess existing challenges, harmonise operational procedures, strengthen investigation and prosecution processes, and develop practical recommendations that would enhance Nigeria’s capacity to prevent kidnapping and protect citizens.
In his remarks, the International Liaison Officer of the UK National Crime Agency, Mr Matt Mountain, reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts against serious and organised crime through practical cooperation, professional exchanges and capacity building.
He commended Nigerian security agencies for their professionalism, courage and dedication despite the increasingly complex operational environment.
Mountain observed that effective responses to kidnapping often begin at the state level, where intelligence gathering, operational decisions and engagement with victims’ families first take place.
He said stronger links between state commands and the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell would facilitate faster intelligence sharing, improve operational coordination, enhance support for victims’ families and increase the success rate of rescue operations while bringing offenders to justice.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Brigadier General Gbor described kidnapping as not only a major public safety concern but also a significant source of funding for terrorist and organised criminal groups.
He noted that the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell, operationalised by the National Security Adviser on December 19, 2024, had become a critical platform for integrating intelligence, coordinating responses and providing advanced technical support to security agencies.
Gbor explained that the second phase of the State Expansion Programme builds on the successes of the inaugural rollout by strengthening communication channels between state operational commanders and the Fusion Cell.
He added that participants would undergo 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 nationwide.
The programme is expected to further reinforce intelligence-driven collaboration among security agencies as Nigeria intensifies efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks and improve public safety.
By PRNigeria
