NIGERIA: Tinubu Approves 29 Correctional Centre Relocations

By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has approved the relocation of 29 correctional centres across Nigeria as part of a major effort to modernise the country’s custodial facilities.

This initiative was confirmed by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the unveiling of 39 newly acquired vehicles and five bullet-resistant guard booths for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in Abuja on Friday.

The minister highlighted that many of the country’s existing correctional centres, including those in Suleja and Ikoyi, are outdated, with some dating back to the 19th century.

Tunji-Ojo cited the example of the Suleja Correctional Centre which was established in 1914 and the Ikoyi’s which was built in 1956.

He said: “Suleja Correctional Centre was established in 1914, Ikoyi in 1956, and we even have facilities from the 19th century. We cannot continue to work with such outdated infrastructure.

“The President has graciously approved for us to start the process of relocating 29 correctional centres.”

He also highlighted the urgency of modernising the correctional system to improve conditions for both inmates and correctional officers.

He further noted that the relocation is part of a broader plan, aimed at addressing the infrastructure challenges faced by Nigeria’s correctional services.

The minister also reaffirmed the public of the government’s commitment to reform.

He stated: “We have to solve these problems one by one, and I want to assure you that the process of relocating these correctional centres has already started. We must ensure that our correctional system is not just about punishment but also about rehabilitation”

The Acting Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, expressed enthusiasm over the new acquisitions, which include specialized vehicles for transporting inmates to and from court.

These vehicles, along with five bullet-resistant guard booths, are designed to enhance security at custodial centres across the country.

Nwakuche also noted that the guard booths, equipped with long-range surveillance and resistance to heavy weaponry and explosives, will be stationed at key locations such as the National Headquarters in Abuja and high-security centres in Kuje, Port Harcourt, Kano, and Lagos.

He added; “The acquisition of these vehicles directly responds to the evolving challenges faced by the NCoS, particularly in ensuring the timely production of inmates in courts. As clearly outlined in the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, one of our core functions is the ‘conveyance of remand persons to and from courts in motorised formations. These new additions to our fleet will significantly bolster our capacity to meet this critical aspect of our mandate.”

The Acting Controller-General also appreciated the NCos officers for their display of professionalism and dedication to work.

He urged them to ensure the appropriate use and regular maintenance of the new facilities.

He noted; “Let us continue to discharge our duties with dedication, integrity, and professionalism. Together, we can build a correctional system that reflects the values of justice, security, and humanity.”