As 2026 begins, Nigerians are calling on the Federal Government to ensure that the current year is not defined by the same wave of kidnapping and banditry that plagued the end of 2025. Following a series of brutal attacks on schools, farms, and religious gatherings across states like Benue, Plateau, Niger, and Kaduna, citizens are demanding more than just verbal condemnations from the presidency.
The recent surge in violence has led to several clear calls for a shift in the government’s security strategy. Many are questioning why the partnership with the United States, which included a Christmas Eve airstrike on terrorist hideouts, has not yet resulted in a more stable environment. Experts are calling for better coordination between international intelligence and local ground troops to intercept fleeing insurgents.
Public figures, including education consultant Hassan Kontagora, have criticized the "abduction and negotiation" cycle. There is a growing sentiment that the government must focus on prevention and rescue rather than allowing a "ransom economy" to thrive at the expense of human lives.
Retired education director Agnes Onche highlighted the devastating impact on schooling. Many boarding facilities have been forced to close because rural schools and unity schools remain soft targets for bandits roaming the outskirts of cities.
Legal experts and religious leaders, such as Catholic Archbishop Matthew Man-Oso Ndagoso, emphasize that security will only improve if kidnapping syndicates are dismantled and their members are publicly prosecuted to serve as a deterrent.
The public mood suggests a deep frustration with the usual response to tragedy. Abuja-based lawyer Chijioke Umelahi noted that while the government often succeeds in securing the release of some victims, they rarely prevent the next wave of attacks in the same areas. This suggests a lack of sustained surveillance in known flashpoints.
Retired security officials like Bem Hembafan argue that while new hardware, such as attack helicopters from the U.S. and assistance from Turkey, is helpful, it is not a cure-all. They believe that without purging moles and saboteurs from within the security apparatus, the country will continue to struggle.
The consensus among Nigerians is that 2026 must be a year of tangible results. Citizens are urging President Bola Tinubu to apply the same level of urgency and passion seen in the implementation of new tax laws to the protection of lives and national sovereignty.
