Nigeria: Unknown assailants kidnap up to 20 people along Abuja-Kaduna highway May 17

Event

Unidentified assailants kidnapped up to 20 travelers along the Abuja-Kaduna highway, Nigeria, the afternoon of May 17. Attackers reportedly blocked a section of the road between Kurmin Kare and Katari, Kachia Local Government Area, targeting private and commercial vehicles. The attack was likely financially motivated. There has been no reported ransom demand as of yet.

Officials will likely maintain an elevated security posture along the highway in the medium term. Security measures like checkpoints and vehicle searches will likely trigger localized traffic disruptions, including congestion.

Context

Routes to and from Abuja, the Abuja-Kaduna highway (A2) notably, remain vulnerable to violent incidents, including lethal attacks and kidnapping generally carried out by armed bandits. Further such incidents remain possible in the medium term despite increased security measures deployed along the highway after the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) suspended train services indefinitely on the company's Abuja-Kaduna route following an attack targeting a Kaduna-bound train March 28. Train services are due to resume on May 23.

Advice

Exercise a high degree of vigilance due to the threat of attacks and kidnappings. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by security personnel. Do not discuss plans and routes publicly. If operating in the area in the long term, vary routes and times of travel and ensure the use of secure transport. Maintain contact with diplomatic representations.