In a bold move to address Nigeria’s persistent prison congestion and bolster the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 5,000 personnel. This decision, long-awaited by many, is expected to bring much-needed relief to the struggling correctional facilities across the country.
The Acting Comptroller General of the NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche Ndidi, disclosed the development during a session with the House of Representatives Committee on Reformatory Institutions. Speaking to the committee chaired by Hon. Chinedu Ogar, Ndidi revealed that while the presidential approval came as early as August 2024, the recruitment process faced delays due to financial hurdles.
Funding Delays Cause Frustration
“The President granted his approval months ago, but we could not proceed immediately because of funding constraints,” Ndidi explained. He assured lawmakers that the recruitment process would commence as soon as the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) gives its nod and funding is disbursed from the 2025 budget.
Lawmakers expressed dismay over the slow progress, with some questioning the transparency of the process. Hon. Victor Ogene was particularly vocal, emphasizing the need for openness and efficiency in the recruitment exercise.
“We cannot afford another backdoor recruitment process,” Ogene said, adding, “The correctional facilities are under immense pressure, and the people deserve a system that is transparent and accountable.”
A Struggling System in Need of Reform
Nigeria’s correctional facilities have long been plagued by overcrowding, insufficient staffing, and outdated infrastructure. With 91,100 inmates nationwide, the cost of feeding alone has become a massive financial burden. Ndidi highlighted that a significant portion of the NCoS budget—N38 billion—was allocated for inmate feeding in 2025. This translates to a daily cost of N1,125 per inmate.
However, the allocation for capital expenditure, intended to modernize facilities, was slashed by N762 million, much to the dismay of NCoS leadership. Ndidi appealed for an additional N70.4 billion to enhance custodial centers, improve security measures, and digitize inmate management systems.
“To effectively run the service, we need advanced technology such as CCTV surveillance, biometric scanners, and body cameras for staff,” he said. “These tools are essential to ensure the safety of inmates and personnel.”
Modernization Plans on the Horizon
The NCoS has outlined ambitious modernization plans, including upgrading its seven training institutions to meet ICT standards and acquiring new operational vehicles and arms for security personnel. Ndidi described these measures as critical to transforming the service.
“The recruitment of 5,000 new personnel is just the beginning. We aim to create a correctional system that is efficient, secure, and equipped for the challenges of modern-day management,” he noted.
Presidential Mandate Brings Hope
President Tinubu’s directive and the inclusion of necessary provisions in the 2025 budget signal a potential turning point for the correctional service. The approved allocations include N127 billion for personnel costs, N45.8 billion for overheads, and N13.4 billion for capital expenditure. These funds, Ndidi assured, would be utilized to address long-standing challenges in the system.
While these plans are commendable, experts caution that their success hinges on timely execution and strict adherence to transparency. Public confidence in the process remains fragile, particularly after past controversies surrounding recruitment and budget implementation in similar government agencies.
Lawmakers Demand Action
Members of the House Committee on Reformatory Institutions have pledged to oversee the process and ensure that the funds allocated are used judiciously. Hon. Chinedu Ogar emphasized the committee’s commitment to holding the NCoS accountable.
“We are here to represent the people, and we will not shy away from our duty,” Ogar declared. “This recruitment and modernization drive must be implemented transparently and efficiently.”
While the recruitment of 5,000 personnel and plans for modernization mark a significant step forward, the challenges facing Nigeria’s correctional system are far from resolved. Overcrowding remains a critical issue, with many facilities operating far beyond their intended capacity. Analysts argue that more systemic reforms, including alternatives to imprisonment for minor offenses, are necessary to reduce inmate numbers.
