Blames rising kidnappings on weakened family values, “get-rich-quick” mindset, and possible political sabotage

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has said terrorism across the country has “drastically reduced,” rating the nation’s overall security performance between 65 and 70 percent.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Friday, May 29, Musa acknowledged that while incidents of terrorism and kidnapping persist, the scale and frequency have declined compared to previous years.

“No nation is completely free from crime,” he said, adding that Nigeria has made measurable progress in curbing terrorist activities nationwide.

The minister, however, expressed concern over the rising wave of kidnappings, attributing much of the problem to a breakdown in family values and poor social orientation. According to him, criminality is increasingly being driven by a desire for quick wealth rather than legitimate means of livelihood.

Musa highlighted troubling trends where individuals are targeting even close relations, describing it as evidence of deeper societal issues. He stressed the need to rebuild moral and educational foundations, urging citizens to embrace hard work instead of shortcuts to wealth.

He also raised the possibility that some criminal acts may be politically motivated. Musa suggested that certain kidnappings — especially those involving victims unable to pay huge ransoms — could be aimed at undermining public confidence in government and portraying the country as unstable.

The defence minister called for a broader societal response, emphasizing that addressing insecurity requires not only military efforts but also social reorientation and stronger family structures.