FG strengthens accountability, reform in the Nigerian Correctional Service
The Federal Government of Nigeria has restated its commitment to institutional reform, transparency and accountability in the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) following the formal presentation of a report by an Independent Investigative Panel into alleged misconduct within the service. The report was unveiled at a high‑level stakeholders’ engagement convened by the Ministry of Interior in Abuja on Tuesday.
The panel was established on November 24, 2024, by the Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr) Olubunmi Tunji‑Ojo, to examine allegations of corruption, abuse of authority and human rights violations across custodial facilities nationwide. After 16 months of investigation, the panel submitted its findings, which government officials say will shape a reform agenda.
Addressing attendees at the event, Dr Tunji‑Ojo said the government elected to confront allegations head‑on rather than pursue superficial reviews. He said the panel’s work represents a crucial step towards enhancing transparency and integrity within the correctional system, aligning it more closely with justice and human dignity.
“The work of this panel represents a significant step toward strengthening transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity within our correctional system,” the minister said, noting that the reforms will address systemic weaknesses and promote professionalism in corrections.
The investigative panel’s report comes amid longstanding challenges in Nigeria’s correctional centres, including overcrowding, prolonged pre‑trial detention, insufficient infrastructure and allegations of rights violations. Independent research shows that a significant portion of inmates nationwide are awaiting trial, with figures suggesting that around 70 per cent of detainees fall into this category, contributing to congestion and straining limited resources.
Senior government officials and stakeholders at the engagement agreed that implementation of the panel’s recommendations is necessary to improve conditions and restore public confidence. The Attorney‑General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, commended the Ministry of Interior for initiating the review, calling it an important step in reinforcing rule‑of‑law agencies and strengthening oversight mechanisms.
Fagbemi also highlighted the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, which reformed the former prison service to emphasise rehabilitation, reintegration and respect for human rights. The legislation signals a shift from purely custodial functions to a more holistic correctional approach.
Stakeholders at the engagement recognised unresolved challenges such as overcrowding, especially among awaiting‑trial inmates, and gaps in legal framework implementation. Common recommendations included expanding non‑custodial sentencing options, improving access to justice, strengthening accountability and oversight mechanisms, and enhancing welfare for correctional personnel.
The Federal Government has also defended earlier dismissals of senior NCoS officials over alleged misconduct, asserting a zero‑tolerance stance on corruption within the service.
Authorities said that where wrongdoing is substantiated, it will be addressed in line with established laws and disciplinary procedures.
Officials said the next phase will focus on the practical implementation of the panel’s recommendations, calling on federal and state actors, civil society and development partners to collaborate in driving reforms that align Nigeria’s correctional system with international standards and best practices.