Mr. Abubakar Umar, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS), has revealed that there are currently 3,413 inmates on death row in the nation’s correctional centers. In addition, as of Monday, December 18, 2023, the total number of inmates in these centers is 77,849, with 76,081 males and 1,768 females. Among these, there are 53,836 Awaiting Trial Inmates (ATIs), consisting of 52,512 males and 1,324 females.
This high number of ATIs, constituting 69% of the total inmate population, poses a significant challenge for the NCoS. However, the service is actively working to address this issue by ensuring the speedy trial of suspects.
It is worth noting that there have been no internal insurrections within the facilities in 2023, which can be attributed to the provision of basic needs and necessities to the inmates, as well as the proactive efforts of the NCoS.
The deployment of technology for surveillance and the establishment of interagency synergy have also contributed to the security of the custodial centers.
Thanks to the proactive initiative and support of the Minister for Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the number of inmates in the custodial centers has been reduced through the release of 4,086 individuals who had the option of paying fines or compensation.
Furthermore, there have been improvements in the treatment regime for inmates, particularly in the areas of reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration. In fact, a total of 1,840 inmates have taken the 2023 NECO/SSCE exams, and many others are participating in various academic programs in custodial centers nationwide.
We have also improved the difficulties encountered by our employees due to the elimination of fuel subsidies by implementing various alleviating actions.
He stated, “One of these actions involved offering free transportation through mass transit buses for staff living in remote areas, ensuring their commute to and from work.”
