Abuja: The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has joined forces with the United Kingdom National Crime Agency (UK-NCA) to bolster their intelligence-driven efforts against kidnapping and organized crime. This collaboration aims to address one of Nigeria’s most urgent security issues through enhanced intelligence sharing and inter-agency cooperation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the announcement was made through a statement by Mr. Michael Abu, the Head of Strategic Communication at NCTC. Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, the National Coordinator of NCTC, speaking on behalf of Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, highlighted that criminal groups have increasingly leveraged technology and operated across various jurisdictions, necessitating a robust response. Represented by Brig.-Gen. Peter Gbor, Director of Intelligence, Laka emphasized the need for continuous intelligence sharing and a coordinated operational approach to tackle the evolving threat.
The Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell has been credited with enhancing intelligence integration, operational coordination, geospatial analysis, and information sharing among security agencies. This platform has played a significant role in dismantling kidnapping networks, advancing investigations, and facilitating successful rescue operations. Laka encouraged participants to use the meeting as an opportunity to address operational gaps and refine investigation and prosecution processes, with the aim of strengthening Nigeria’s capacity to prevent kidnapping and safeguard its citizens.
Mr. Matt Mountain, the UK National Crime Agency’s International Liaison Officer, reiterated the UK’s commitment to aiding Nigeria in its battle against serious and organized crime. He praised the professionalism and resilience of Nigerian security agencies, despite facing increasingly complex operational challenges. Mountain pointed out that effective kidnap response starts at the state level, where intelligence is initially generated and operational decisions are made. Strengthening ties between state commands and the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell is expected to improve intelligence sharing, victim support, and the successful prosecution of offenders. The UK pledges continued support through capacity building, professional exchanges, and practical cooperation.
Brig.-Gen. Gbor expressed concern about kidnapping being a major public safety issue and a significant funding source for terrorist and organized criminal groups. He noted that the Fusion Cell, operational since December 2024, serves as a crucial platform for intelligence integration and provides advanced technical capabilities to security agencies. Participants are set to undergo intensive kidnap management training based on the United Nations Kidnap Manual and review the Fusion Cell’s Standard Operating Procedures to enhance nationwide operational effectiveness.
The initiative is part of the Second Edition of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) State Expansion Programme and Stakeholders’ Meeting in Abuja from July 6 to July 10. It brings together security, intelligence, and law enforcement agencies, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and international partners, including the British High Commission.