Amidst a rising wave of kidnappings across the nation, there has been a notable surge in the demand for bulletproof vehicles among VIPs and affluent individuals in Nigeria. Dealers in armored vehicles have reported significant increases in the sale of custom bulletproof Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) as the frequency of kidnappings has escalated.
Armed groups, emerging from various forests, have expanded their operations into major cities and urban areas, abducting citizens and demanding exorbitant ransoms. This has led to families and friends of the kidnapped resorting to crowd-funding for ransom payments, despite warnings from the Federal Government and police that this could exacerbate the kidnap-for-ransom crisis.
Companies specializing in armored vehicles have observed a marked uptick in purchases by high-profile and wealthy clients seeking to enhance their security and that of their families with specially customized vehicles.
Haresh Jethmalanito, the Sales Manager at Inkas Armoured Vehicle Manufacturing Nigeria, highlighted a boom in the armored vehicle market, attributing it to the deteriorating security situation. He mentioned challenges such as high customs duties and volatile exchange rates impacting business operations, but emphasized the significant increase in demand.
Mark Burton, President of Armor Max Vehicles, also confirmed the growing demand, with vehicle and armoring costs ranging from $35,000 to $90,000. He pointed out the challenges posed by currency fluctuations and the heightened need for security driving the demand for their products.
Tonye Edwin, Managing Director of Globaton Services Ltd, noted a particular spike in demand during December, attributing it to Nigerians traveling for the festive season and leading to higher prices for armored vehicles.
In response to the kidnapping crisis, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has committed to supporting security agencies with technology to combat the issue. Aminu Maida, Vice Chairman of the NCC, emphasized ongoing collaboration with security bodies and the commission’s efforts to sanction illegal SIM card registrations.
Maida, outlining his vision for the NCC, stressed the importance of regulatory measures to reposition the telecom industry, focusing on data security, SIM card management, and enhancing corporate governance within the telecommunications sector.