News

See the Number of Correctional Officers President Tinubu Approve to Tackle Overcrowding

Published by Tope Fakinlede on April 26th, 2025.

See the Number of Correctional Officers President Tinubu Approve to Tackle Overcrowding

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 5,000 officers into the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) as part of efforts to ease overcrowding in correctional centers and strengthen the agency’s workforce.

Although the approval was initially given in August 2024, the exercise faced delays due to budget limitations. However, with the recruitment now included in the 2025 budget, the process is set to move forward.

Acting Comptroller General of the NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche Ndidi, revealed the update during a briefing to the House of Representatives Committee on Reformatory Institutions, led by Hon. Chinedu Ogar.

Ndidi stated that the recruitment will begin once the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire, and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) gives its final clearance.

Members of the committee voiced concerns about the delay, stressing the pressing need for additional staff. Hon. Victor Ogene, among others, called for a transparent and efficient hiring process.

Beyond recruitment, the NCoS is also focusing on modernization, including the deployment of biometric systems, CCTV surveillance, and upgrades to training facilities to meet contemporary ICT standards. These improvements aim to create a more secure and effective correctional system for both inmates and

officers.