The Federal Government on Thursday expanded the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell to additional states after reviewing its national anti-kidnapping strategy to improve intelligence sharing and operational coordination against kidnapping.
The Fusion Cell became operational on December 19, 2024.
The expansion, unveiled by the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) at the ongoing week-long programme, running from July 6 to July 10 in Abuja, marks the second phase of the programme and is expected to strengthen collaboration among security, intelligence and law enforcement agencies across the country.
The initiative was announced during the inauguration of the Second Edition of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell State Expansion Programme and Stakeholders’ Meeting in Abuja.
Representing the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the National Coordinator of the NCTC, Maj. Gen. Adamu Garba Laka, said, “Kidnapping remains one of Nigeria’s most pressing security threats, with criminal groups increasingly employing sophisticated tactics, exploiting technology and operating across multiple jurisdictions.
“Confronting these evolving threats requires sustained inter-agency collaboration, timely intelligence-sharing and coordinated operational responses.”
In a statement issued by the Head of Strategic Communication, NCTC-ONSA, Abu Michael, Laka’s address, read by the Director of Intelligence, Brig. Gen. Peter Gbor, notes that the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell has improved intelligence integration, operational coordination, geospatial analysis and information sharing among security agencies.
Laka noted that the intelligence integration has contributed to the disruption of kidnapping networks, rescue operations and investigations.
He, however, said continued collaboration was necessary to address existing operational gaps.
“While significant progress has been achieved, continuous collaboration remains essential to closing operational gaps exploited by criminal elements,” he said.
Laka urged participants to “critically assess existing challenges, harmonise operational procedures, strengthen investigation and prosecution processes, and develop practical recommendations that will enhance Nigeria’s capacity to prevent kidnapping and protect its citizens.”
Speaking in the capacity of the Director of Intelligence, Gbor said kidnapping had evolved beyond a public safety challenge to become a significant source of funding for terrorist and organised criminal groups.
“The second phase of the State Expansion Programme builds upon the successes recorded during the inaugural rollout by strengthening communication channels between state operational commanders and the Fusion Cell.
“Participants will undergo intensive Kidnap Management Training based on the United Nations Kidnap Manual, while also reviewing the Cell’s Standard Operating Procedures and Terms of Reference to ensure greater operational effectiveness nationwide,” he said.
The United Kingdom National Crime Agency International Liaison Officer, Matt Mountain, said effective responses to kidnapping begin at the state level, where intelligence gathering, operational decisions and engagement with victims’ families are first undertaken.
“Effective kidnap response begins at the state level, where initial intelligence, operational decisions and engagement with victims’ families often occur.”
He added that stronger coordination between state commands and the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell would enable “faster intelligence-sharing, improved operational coordination, enhanced support to victims’ families and greater success in rescuing victims and bringing offenders to justice.”
“The UK remains committed to supporting Nigerian-led initiatives through practical cooperation, professional exchange and capacity building, while respecting Nigeria’s leadership in addressing its security challenges”, Mountain noted.
The summit brings together representatives of security agencies, Ministries, Departments and Agencies, alongside international partners, to review existing procedures, identify operational gaps and improve Nigeria’s response to kidnapping.
(The Whistler)
