The Acting Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, has unveiled reform agenda to tackle overcrowding, reduce trial delays, and revamp custodial facility management across the country.
Speaking during an interactive session with senior officers at the NCoS National Headquarters in Abuja on Monday, Nwakuche pledged to clear the backlog of over 48,900 awaiting trial cases—over 60% of which involved non-bailable charges like armed robbery and murder.
He described the delays as a “national challenge” and announced plans to collaborate with state chief judges, attorneys-general, and the Inspector-General of Police to expedite trials.
“Presently, our statistics as of Monday 6th January 2025 showed that 48,932 inmates in custody are Awaiting Trial Persons.
“I intend to interface with the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Inspector General of Police, and other prosecuting agencies and critical stakeholders to fast track the trial of these inmates especially those on non-bailable offences like armed robbery, murder and others that constitute over 60 per cent of Awaiting Trial Persons.
“Meanwhile, I want to urge you to relate with your state chief judges, attorneys-general, commissioners of police to further address the challenges,” he said.
Nwakuche also emphasised the need for non-custodial measures, including parole and community service, to ease the strain on the country’s correctional system.
“Keeping inmates in secure custody is a premium mandate that should never be compromised. Our part within the internal security architecture of keeping people in safe and humane custody must be kept,” Nwakuche said while warning against negligence that could lead to escapes, riots, or attacks.
“The issues of escapes, riots and attacks that more often than not are results of indolence should never be allowed to repeat themselves. The consequences of such grievous offences are severe and should be avoided at all costs. You have been warned. Take this message to the staff under you.”
Nwakuche unveiled the ongoing construction of 3,000-capacity ultramodern custodial facilities and announced plans for additional centres to tackle overcrowding.
He stated that the move is part of a broader strategy to provide a safer and more humane environment for inmates while integrating technological solutions to improve facility security.
“Overcrowding, no doubt, stands out as the most pressing challenge of the NCoS. While engaging State Chief Executives to expedite the trial of the over 90 per cent of state offenders in custody, the use of non-custodial measures and early release mechanisms will be taken up with the judiciary.
“We will also fast-track the construction of proposed 3,000-capacity ultramodern custodial facilities and other centres across the country,” NCoS boss said.
Nwakuche commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to inmate welfare, and increasing inmates’ daily feeding allowances and promised to push for further improvements.
He also stressed the importance of rehabilitation, calling for expanded educational and vocational programs in correctional centres.
Nwakuche directed senior officers to conduct regular inspections and ensure strict adherence to operational standards, adding, “The Honourable Minister has assured us that aside from the provision of human and physical security, the deployment of technology to most of our major Custodial Centres will be a top priority,” he stated.