Families of kidnapped Nigerians are facing deepening distress as many victims, largely women and children, remain in captivity without any communication from their abductors. Reports indicate that more than 1,000 persons abducted during coordinated attacks across several states in the first quarter of 2026 are still being held in various locations.

The affected areas span multiple regions, including Kwara, Borno, Niger, Zamfara and parts of Southern Kaduna. Unlike previous incidents where kidnappers quickly contacted families to demand ransom, many relatives now report prolonged silence, with no calls, negotiations or proof that the victims are alive. This development has heightened anxiety and uncertainty among affected communities.

In Kwara State, the abduction of 176 residents from Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area in February remains unresolved. Families say more than 50 days after the incident, there has been no contact from the abductors, despite a viral video showing the victims shortly after their capture. Relatives describe the silence as psychologically distressing, noting that the absence of communication has left them unable to determine the condition or survival of their loved ones.

A similar pattern is evident in Borno State, where over 300 residents abducted from Ngoshe in Gwoza Local Government Area during a March attack remain unaccounted for. Although a few women have returned, many victims, including children, are still missing. Local sources report that returnees arrived without mobile phones and provided little information about those still in captivity.

In Niger State, the crisis has persisted for longer periods, with some victims reportedly held for up to a year. Repeated attacks in communities such as Shiroro, Munya and Mariga have resulted in dozens of abductions, including incidents recorded during the Easter period. Families allege that even after partial ransom payments, some victims remain in captivity, while others are feared dead.

Communities in Southern Kaduna also report a shift in kidnapping patterns, with several families stating that abductors no longer initiate contact promptly. In cases where communication exists, ransom demands remain beyond the reach of most households, further compounding the crisis. Residents describe widespread economic hardship and emotional strain as families struggle to cope.

Zamfara State has recorded one of the highest numbers of abductions, with at least 597 persons reportedly kidnapped between January and April 2026. Many of the victims are still believed to be in captivity despite ransom payments, while security agencies have confirmed ongoing operations to dismantle criminal camps and secure their release.

Civil society organisations have criticised the situation, describing the prolonged captivity of victims as a failure of state protection. They have called for intensified rescue efforts, prosecution of perpetrators and the establishment of sustained security presence in vulnerable communities.

Security analysts warn that the absence of communication from abductors complicates rescue operations, limiting negotiation options and increasing operational risks. Meanwhile, the humanitarian impact continues to grow, with children dropping out of school, families losing livelihoods and communities struggling to support dependants left behind.

Authorities across affected states have acknowledged the incidents and maintain that efforts are ongoing to track down the perpetrators and secure the release of victims. However, families continue to express frustration over the pace of response, urging both federal and state governments to take more decisive action.