Nigeria recorded a sharp rise in violent crimes in May 2026, with at least 279 people kidnapped and 842 others killed in 156 separate violent incidents across the country, according to newly released data from Nextier’s Nigeria Violent Conflicts Database.
The report, released on Monday, paints a troubling picture of the nation’s security landscape, highlighting a significant increase in killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks compared to the same period in 2025.
Violent Incidents Surge Nationwide
According to the database, violent incidents increased by 51.5 percent in May 2026 compared to May 2025. Casualties also rose dramatically by 90.1 percent, while the number of kidnap victims climbed by 19.7 percent during the same period.
The figures underscore growing concerns over the worsening security situation despite ongoing government efforts and substantial investments in peacebuilding and conflict-resolution initiatives.
Security analysts say the latest statistics suggest that existing measures have yet to produce measurable improvements in public safety across several parts of the country.
Lawmakers Raise Alarm Over Security Funding
Reacting to the report, the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives expressed concern over what it described as the poor implementation of the national budget, warning that inadequate funding for critical security agencies is contributing to the deterioration of security nationwide.
The lawmakers argued that delays and shortfalls in budget execution have weakened the operational capacity of security institutions tasked with protecting lives and property.
They called for greater accountability and improved funding mechanisms to strengthen the country’s response to growing security threats.
Criminology Experts Urge Stronger Action
Also commenting on the development, the President of the Nigeria Society for Criminology (NSC), Professor Oludayo Tade, urged President Bola Tinubu to intensify efforts aimed at securing the country and safeguarding citizens. Tade stressed the need for a more coordinated national security strategy capable of addressing the root causes of violence, kidnapping, and criminal activities across Nigeria.
He noted that the persistent rise in insecurity continues to affect economic activities, community development, and public confidence in government institutions.
