Kidnappers collected N2.57bn from Nigerians in one year — SBM

Kidnappers collected N2.57 billion as ransom payment from 4,722 abducted victims in Nigeria from July 2024 to June 2025.

This is according to a report released recently by SBM Intelligence.

According to the report, the secured ransom stems from N48 billion demanded by kidnappers in the period under review.

The figure paid is 29.9 percent of the entire ransom demanded across the cross.

Accordingly, Boko Haram collected the largest share of ransom paid.

Unfortunately, of the 4,722 people kidnapped, at least 762 were killed.

“Between July 2024 and June 2025, Nigeria’s kidnap-for-ransom crisis consolidated into a structured, profit-seeking industry. At least 4,722 people were abducted in 997 incidents, and at least 762 were killed. Kidnappers demanded roughly N48 billion and secured N2.57 billion (about $1.66 million)”, he stated.

Kidnappers collected N2.57bn from Nigerians in one year — SBM