A new report by SBM Intelligence has unveiled alarming statistics regarding the surge in kidnappings across Nigeria, revealing that over 1,100 individuals lost their lives in 1,713 abduction incidents between July 2025 and June 2026. The report highlights a staggering 66% increase in the number of victims, with a total of 7,825 abductions recorded during this period.

The report, titled ‘The capture of the kidnap economy,’ indicates that a total of N7.8 billion was paid in ransom, with a significant portion of this amount collected by the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati Wal-Jihad faction of Boko Haram, which accounted for 90% of the ransoms. Notably, two major incidents contributed significantly to the ransom totals: a N5 billion payment for 416 captives taken from Ngoshe in Borno State and a N2 billion ransom for 315 pupils and staff abducted from St Mary’s School in Papiri, Niger State. These two incidents alone accounted for N7 billion, nearly the entire ransom paid during the year.

The report further reveals a concerning trend in the kidnap economy, where the amount demanded in ransom has decreased from N48 billion to N22.9 billion, yet the actual payments have more than tripled from N2.56 billion to N7.78 billion. This shift indicates a 34% collection rate, a significant increase from the previous 5.35%. The report attributes this rise not to improved negotiation tactics by kidnappers, but rather to the dominance of a single terrorist organization in the ransom collection process.

Geographically, the Northwest region of Nigeria has been the hardest hit, with Zamfara State alone recording 236 kidnapping incidents and 1,921 victims, representing nearly a quarter of the national total. The North accounts for an overwhelming 93.7% of all abductions, while the South's share has dwindled to just 6.3%. The report notes that mass abductions have become the prevalent method of operation, particularly in Zamfara and Sokoto states.

The resurgence of school abductions, exemplified by the Papiri attack, poses significant risks to education and public trust. The report also highlights that payment of ransom does not guarantee the safety of victims, as evidenced by at least six cases where individuals were killed after ransom was paid. Additionally, kidnappers are increasingly targeting those who handle ransom payments, indicating a shift in tactics.

To combat this growing crisis, the report emphasizes the need for a coordinated strategy that disrupts the financial flows supporting insurgency and addresses the economic desperation fueling these criminal activities. Without such measures, Nigeria risks entrenching kidnapping as not just a criminal industry but as a funding mechanism for groups threatening national stability. The stark contrast between the demands of bandits and the actual collections underscores the urgent need for effective intervention in the country's ongoing battle against kidnapping.