By Seyi Odewale
The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to reforming Nigeria’s Correctional Service.
He said this during unveiling 39 operational vehicles and five bullet-resistant guard booths at the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) headquarters in Abuja.
Speaking at the inauguration, Tunji-Ojo said the current administration, under President Bola Tinubu, is determined to enhance the efficiency and security of the correctional system.
He also revealed the Federal Government’s plan to relocate 29 of the 256 custodial centers nationwide was due to urban encroachment, citing facilities such as those in Agodi (Ibadan), Ikoyi (Lagos), Enugu, Akwa Ibom, and Suleja.
“Some of these facilities were built as far back as 1914. With urbanisation catching up, we must relocate them to ensure security and efficiency,” he said.
Tunji-Ojo further stated, “The transformation of our correctional facilities is not just about infrastructure; it is about restoring dignity to inmates and ensuring that our officers work in a conducive environment.”
He announced that the vehicles would be distributed to various correctional facilities nationwide to improve the transportation of inmates, particularly those awaiting trial. At the same time, the newly acquired guard booths would be stationed at key custodial centers, including the NCoS headquarters, Kuje, Port Harcourt, Kano, and Ikoyi custodial centers.
Tunji-Ojo highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing longstanding issues in the para-military services, particularly career stagnation.
“No administration in Nigeria’s history has demonstrated such dedication to the welfare of correctional officers and inmates like this government. Over 50,000 personnel have been promoted in less than two years, and by March, the 2025 promotion list will be announced,” he assured.
Furthermore, Tunji-Ojo announced the federal government’s approval to recruit 50 doctors and 100 nurses to enhance medical care in correctional centers. “Health is a fundamental right. We cannot talk about reformation and rehabilitation if we neglect the health needs of inmates,” he stated.
Top government officials attended the event, including the Chairman of the Board of Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services, Maj Gen A. M. Jibril (rtd), and representatives of the Senate and House Committees on Interior. Also present were the Acting Controller-General of NCoS, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, the Comptroller-General of Immigration Service, Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap, and representatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Federal Fire Service.
The Acting Controller-General of NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, expressed appreciation for the federal government’s intervention, revealing that of the 80,066 inmates currently in custody, 53,225 are awaiting trial. He noted that acquiring operational vehicles would significantly improve the efficiency of inmate transportation and enhance security.
