THE IMPACT OF KIDNAPPING ON VICTIMS AND THEIR FAMILIES IN ZARIA LGA,KADUNA STATE,NIGERIA

ABSTRACT This study investigates the Psychological, Social and Economic impacts of kidnapping on Victims and their Families in Zaria Local Government Area, (LGA), Kaduna State, Nigeria. Employing a mixed-methods approach with a predominately quantitative survey (n = 384; 96% response rate) complemented by qualitative insights from openended responses and stakeholder observation, the research examines the psychological, physical, social, and economic consequences of kidnapping, as well as the availability and effectiveness of support systems. Findings show that a large majority of respondents recognize severe psychological trauma during and after captivity (≈71%) and widespread longterm mental health effects (≈69%). Over 61% reported that physical violence or abuse commonly occurs during kidnappings. Economic burdens ransom demands, medical and legal costs, and loss of income were identified as a major challenge by about 76% of respondents. Social stigma and discrimination postkidnapping were reported by roughly half of respondents, undermining victims’ reintegration. The study links these outcomes to systemic issues insufficient mentalhealth and medical infrastructure, weak legal aid provision, limited community mobilization, and broader governance and security deficits. It concludes that addressing kidnapping’s longterm harms requires a coordinated, victimcentred response integrating accessible psychosocial care, postrelease medical and legal aid, economic recovery support, community sensitization to reduce stigma, and strengthened multiagency coordination for prevention and rehabilitation. The project recommends establishing comprehensive victim support centres, scaling communitybased mentalhealth services, improving access to affordable legal assistance, and implementing targeted socioeconomic recovery programs to enable durable reintegration and resilience.