The Controller General of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, has issued a strong warning to officers across the country, declaring that any form of negligence or security breach in the nation’s correctional centres will attract serious consequences.
Speaking during an emergency virtual strategy meeting held on Tuesday from Abuja, Nwakuche emphasized the importance of securing custodial facilities, especially with the festive season approaching and the likelihood of heavy rains which could pose additional security risks.
The meeting, which included all zonal coordinators, state command controllers, and commandants of training colleges and schools, focused on addressing current and emerging security challenges facing correctional centres nationwide.
In a statement released by the Service Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, the Controller General directed officers to immediately carry out a thorough audit of all custodial centres. This audit is expected to identify vulnerabilities, particularly in high-risk facilities, and allow for the quick activation of risk mitigation measures.
“This is not just about concrete walls and iron bars,” Nwakuche said. “It’s about trust, duty, and the safety of every Nigerian. The time for complacency is over.”
He stressed that officers who fail in their duties or are found to be complicit in any form of security breach would be punished severely. According to him, the NCoS maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy for negligence, collusion, or dereliction of duty.
The Controller General also instructed all facility heads to identify weak links within the custodial chain and to take decisive action against them. He added that officers must act swiftly and responsibly to prevent any potential jail break or coordinated attack.
In recent years, several custodial centres in Nigeria have faced attacks, some resulting in the escape of hundreds of inmates. These incidents have raised public concern over the security of correctional facilities and the readiness of officers to respond to threats.
To avoid a repeat of such occurrences, Nwakuche said that innovation and inter-agency collaboration must become central to the operations of the Correctional Service. He urged officers to build stronger ties with other security bodies and community stakeholders to ensure a more comprehensive security approach.
“We must embrace a culture of vigilance, professionalism, and cooperation,” he said. “The threats we face today are dynamic. We must rise to the occasion with modern strategies and united efforts.”
The CG also took time during the meeting to listen to feedback and suggestions from officers across various regions. While he appreciated constructive ideas shared, he did not hesitate to caution those whose input appeared lax or uncommitted to the security goals of the service.
Highlighting the importance of professionalism, Nwakuche reminded all personnel that the integrity and trust Nigerians place in the Correctional Service depend on how well they manage the nation’s custodial facilities.
He called on officers to rededicate themselves to their duties, especially as the festive period tends to come with heightened security risks due to increased movement and potential unrest in some regions.
“Inmates, no matter their status, are under our care and custody. Their escape or harm due to negligence is a breach of national security and a betrayal of public trust,” he concluded.
The Nigeria Correctional Service has continued to face challenges such as overcrowded prisons, outdated infrastructure, and inadequate funding. However, the current administration has promised reforms, including improved staff training, better security systems, and enhanced inter-agency coordination.
With this latest directive, Nwakuche hopes to reinvigorate the service’s operations and reinforce the message that national security begins with the integrity of its institutions — including the correctional centres.
