President Bola Tinubu has approved the relocation of 29 correctional centres across Nigeria as part of efforts to modernise and upgrade the country’s custodial facilities.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Friday in Abuja during the commissioning of 39 newly acquired vehicles and five bullet-resistant guard booths for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).
Tunji-Ojo explained that many of Nigeria’s correctional facilities are outdated, with some dating back to the 19th century. He cited the Suleja Correctional Centre, which was established in 1914, and Ikoyi, which was set up in 1956, as examples of the need for modernisation.
“President Tinubu has graciously approved the relocation of 29 correctional centres,” Tunji-Ojo confirmed, adding that the relocation process is already underway. He stressed that the initiative would significantly improve the conditions for both inmates and correctional officers.
The minister also highlighted ongoing reforms within the NCoS, including enhanced welfare packages and promotions for officers, noting, “We are making progress. While we are not yet where we want to be, we are certainly far from where we started.”
Acting Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, commended the new acquisitions, especially the vehicles designed to enhance inmate transportation to courts. He explained that the strengthened fleet would improve court attendance, expedite the administration of justice, and help reduce congestion in correctional facilities.
Additionally, Nwakuche praised the installation of bullet-resistant guard booths at high-security custodial centres in Abuja, Port Harcourt, Kano, and Lagos, improving protection against external security threats.
These new measures are in line with the government’s broader vision to reposition the NCoS for greater operational efficiency and adherence to international best practices.
