In response to the escalating threat of kidnapping and other high-profile crimes in Nigeria, the federal government is considering offers of foreign assistance.
Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, disclosed that the United States and other undisclosed countries have extended their support to Nigeria.
Idris made the announcement during a press briefing at the State House in Abuja following a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. President Tinubu reiterated his directive for security agencies to ensure the safe return of all kidnapping victims.
Recent weeks have witnessed a surge in kidnapping incidents, particularly in the northern regions of the country. Notably, 287 pupils were abducted from a primary school in Kuriga, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna, while another 61 individuals were kidnapped in an attack on the Buda community in Kajuru Local Government Area.
Additionally, 16 Qur’anic students were abducted by bandits in Sokoto, and there were reports of women being kidnapped from an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Borno.
The government’s response to seek external support marks a notable shift, as it is the first time such assistance has been publicly acknowledged. Minister Idris clarified that President Tinubu emphasised a firm stance against paying ransom to kidnappers.
Regarding the foreign aid offers, Idris stated, “We’re aware that it is not just the U.S. that has offered to help. Other countries have also offered to support Nigeria. But what we can tell you is that the government is still reviewing these offers and the position of the government will be made known.”
Assuring swift action, Idris emphasised that security agencies are diligently working to rescue the abducted individuals. He reiterated President Tinubu’s directive of no ransom payments, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring the safe return of all victims.
In a related development, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), provided updates on the security situation in Abuja. Appearing before the Senate alongside FCT Commissioner of Police, Benneth Igweh, Wike expressed optimism about improvements in security within the capital.
Acknowledging ongoing construction projects and administrative reforms in the FCT, Wike emphasised the importance of continued efforts to address crime.
He highlighted that while no society is entirely free of crime, significant strides have been made in combating kidnapping, with key perpetrators apprehended.
Wike’s remarks shed light on the multifaceted approach being undertaken to tackle the security challenges facing Nigeria, as both domestic and international efforts are being mobilised to address the scourge of kidnapping and insecurity.
