Addressing The Psychosocial Consequences Of Kidnapping And Banditry: The Critical Role Of Medical Social Workers In Victim Rehabilitation

ITITA, VICTOR EDE; ASUQUO, FELIX JAMES

doi:10.67007/ijsds-2026-292e4f84

Abstract The upsurge in abductions kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria has generated widespread concern among policymakers, healthcare professionals, social workers, and security agencies. Kidnapping and banditry have gone beyond conventional crimes and now have threatening ramifications to the national security of Nigeria. Kidnapping and banditry have become significant security and public health concerns in Nigeria, leaving victims with profound psychological, social, emotional, and physical consequences. Survivors often experience trauma, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social dislocation, and economic hardship that require comprehensive rehabilitation services. While security responses focus primarily on rescue and law enforcement, the long-term recovery of victims depends significantly on psychosocial interventions. This paper examines the psychosocial consequences of kidnapping and banditry and highlights the indispensable role of medical social workers in the rehabilitation process. Drawing on the Psychosocial Theory of Human Development and the Strengths-Based Perspective, the paper explores how medical social workers facilitate psychological recovery, family support, community reintegration, advocacy, and multidisciplinary care coordination. The paper concludes that strengthening medical social work services within healthcare institutions is essential for improving rehabilitation outcomes among victims of kidnapping and banditry in Nigeria.