A report by SB Morgen (SBM) Intelligence, a research firm, has identified Port Harcourt, Maiduguri, Lagos, Jos, Calabar, Kano, Eleme Junction in Rivers State, and Onitsha as the eight most dangerous areas for security threats in Nigeria.
The report highlights major cities and highways prone to theft, attacks, and road hazards, offering critical insights into the country’s ongoing security challenges.
According to the report, Port Harcourt is the most perilous city, with 85 reported incidents, mainly involving violent crimes such as armed robbery and kidnapping.
Maiduguri follows with 52 incidents, marked by persistent insurgent threats. Lagos recorded 32 incidents, with urban crime concentrated in densely populated areas.
“The Makurdi-Jos route presents another troubling scenario, with a blend of youth gang violence and farmer-pastoral conflicts. These incidents often lead to roadblocks and attacks on motorists, highlighting systemic lapses in government security provisions,” the report stated.
Jos, Calabar, and Kano each reported between 18 and 23 incidents, predominantly involving communal clashes and urban theft. Eleme Junction in Rivers State, a vital transport hub, accounted for 16 incidents, while Onitsha’s busy trade routes reported 15 cases of theft and related crimes.
“The Port Harcourt-Warri route has now surpassed the Abuja-Kaduna highway in danger levels,” the report noted, emphasizing the prevalence of kidnapping for ransom.
Beyond insecurity, the report also highlighted significant infrastructural deficiencies. It revealed that 84.6% of respondents had experienced or heard of security incidents on their travel routes. Only 42% found the roads somewhat safe, and a mere 2.4% considered them very safe.
The survey identified challenges such as potholes, poor drainage, and traffic congestion as exacerbating road hazards. It called for “improved security measures to safeguard travelers” and enhancements in road infrastructure.
The findings underscore the pressing need for strategic interventions to address these challenges and ensure safer travel across Nigeria.
