A total of 1,142 people were killed in 1,713 kidnapping and kidnapping-related incidents across Nigeria between July 2025 and June 2026, while about N7.8 billion was paid in ransom, according to a report by SBM Intelligence.
The report, titled “The Capture of the Kidnap Economy,” stated that 7,825 people were abducted during the period, with 895 civilians among those killed.
According to the report, the number of kidnapping victims increased by 66 per cent compared with the previous period.
It also revealed that the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) faction of Boko Haram collected about 90 per cent of the total ransom paid, despite being linked to only eight incidents.
Two major abductions accounted for approximately N7 billion of the ransom: N5 billion reportedly paid for 416 people abducted in Ngoshe, Borno State, and N2 billion paid following the abduction of 315 pupils and staff of St Mary’s School in Papiri, Niger State.
The report noted that although the total amount demanded in ransom fell from N48 billion to N22.9 billion, the amount actually paid increased from N2.56 billion to N7.78 billion.
The North-West recorded the highest number of kidnapping incidents, victims and deaths. Zamfara State recorded 236 incidents involving 1,921 victims, accounting for nearly a quarter of the national total.
Overall, the report said the North accounted for 93.7 per cent of all abducted persons, while the South accounted for only 6.3 per cent.
Mass Abductions
SBM Intelligence identified mass abduction as the most common method used by kidnappers. Zamfara recorded 92 mass abductions, followed by Sokoto with 76.
The report also warned that school kidnappings have returned, with the Papiri school attack highlighting the impact of abductions on education, farming and public confidence.
It further stated that paying ransom does not always guarantee the safe release of victims. In at least six incidents, victims were reportedly killed even after ransom had been paid.
In 14 other cases, kidnappers demanded goods such as motorcycles, mobile phones, food and fuel instead of cash.
The report recommended disrupting the financial networks that fund insurgency while also addressing the economic hardship that helps criminal groups recruit new members.
It warned that without a coordinated strategy, kidnapping could become not only a profitable criminal business but also a major source of funding for terrorist organisations threatening Nigeria’s security.
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