Nigeria Faces Rising Phone Theft Amid Digital Dependency
Nigeria experienced a striking average of 2,854 phone thefts per hour between May 2023 and April 2024, reflecting the nation’s security challenges amidst growing mobile technology reliance, as reported in the National Bureau of Statistics’ Crime Experience and Security Perception Survey (CESPS). The survey found phone theft, with 25 million cases, to be the most prevalent crime, surpassing other offenses like consumer fraud and assault.
With the nation’s digital transformation, where mobile phones act as essential lifelines, the rampant theft presents a major threat. Adeolu Ogunbanjo of the National Association of Telecoms Subscribers (NATCOMS) stressed the need for stronger protective measures and urged phone users to familiarise themselves with their phone’s IMEI for effective tracking. This urgent call coincides with the Nigerian Communications Commission’s introduction of a Device Management System to curb theft. To what extent could enhanced phone security measures effectively reduce this pervasive crime in Nigeria? Read more.
