Federal Government Approves Emergency Procurement of Digital Tracking Devices to Combat Kidnapping

The Federal Government, through the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced President Bola Tinubu’s approval of emergency procurement of digital tracking devices to combat kidnappings in the nation’s capital.

Digital trackers, equipped with Global Positioning System (GPS) technology, enable users to monitor the location of vehicles, assets, or individuals. Wike expressed frustration over the lack of such equipment in the past but emphasized that the tide would now turn against kidnappers with the president’s approval for emergency procurement.

According to Wike, these tracking devices are essential tools that can specifically track the location of a phone to an exact spot or room, providing a significant boost in combating crime. He highlighted that with this equipment, security agencies would no longer need to seek approval from their headquarters to track criminals.

Mr. Victor Madu, a tech expert and Founder of Praiz Tech, commended the government’s recognition of technology’s potential, stating that GPS-enabled tracking devices could accurately locate kidnappers’ hidden dens. Madu explained that tracking devices could be external, attached to clothing or objects, or internal, injected into the body, with the latter posing a risk of infection.

He cautioned against consulting private firms for tracking services, suggesting that the government should manage tracking and information to prevent abuse.

Madu also emphasized that tracking devices would not only help combat kidnapping but also expose corruption if effectively utilized. He urged the government to invest more in technology by establishing tech hubs across the country to train young Nigerians and showcase their skills.

Mr. Seyi Akanni, a tech security expert, praised the government’s use of technology to address insecurity. He suggested integrating the National Identification Number (NIN) database with digital tracking devices to improve tracking capabilities, especially in identifying the origins of calls made by kidnappers.

Akanni also called for collaboration between security agencies and telecommunications operators to track SIM cards used in kidnappers’ calls, emphasizing the need for inter-agency cooperation and data sharing within the security architecture.

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