FG sets nationwide fusion cells against kidnapping, banditry

CYRIL  MBAH , Abuja

The Federal Government has launched the nationwide expansion of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell in a bid to address the worsening kidnapping crisis.

The rollout, formally unveiled in Abuja, marks a strategic push to reinforce coordination between federal security institutions and state-level commands.

Adamu Laka, National Coordinator of the Fusion Cell, described the initiative as “a mission, not just a meeting,” underscoring its importance in closing the gap between national oversight and local intelligence efforts.

“Kidnapping in Nigeria has evolved from isolated incidents into a well organised criminal enterprise,” Laka warned.

He noted that armed and terrorist groups have hijacked crime to fund their operations, using ransom payments to acquire weapons, sustain logistics, and expand territorial control.

“Where coordination is weak, fear thrives,” he said.

Established through a partnership between the Nigerian government and the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency, the Fusion Cell has already played a role in several successful rescue missions.

It has also enhanced intelligence, sharing among Nigeria’s numerous security agencies and helped disrupt kidnapping networks.

However, Laka stressed that tackling abductions requires more than federal-level initiatives.

 “Too often, real-time intelligence and operational readiness are held at the state level.

“This programme aims to directly connect the Fusion Cell to state commands, thereby strengthening early warning systems, improving intelligence flow, and accelerating response times”, he said.

The rollout is part of a broader State Expansion Programme driven by the Office of the National Security Adviser, under the leadership of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

It seeks to foster a united, nationwide front against abduction.

Commending the robust attendance by security stakeholders from across the country, Laka urged participants to share their frontline experiences, highlight operational challenges, and suggest actionable solutions.

He officially declared the programme, stating, “Let this be the start of a more secure Nigeria, where no family lives under the threat of abduction and no community is held hostage by fear.”