President Bola Tinubu has given the green light for the relocation of 29 correctional facilities nationwide in a bid to modernize the country’s custodial centers. The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this announcement during the unveiling of 39 newly acquired vehicles and five bullet-resistant guard booths for the Nigerian Correctional Service in Abuja.
Tunji-Ojo emphasized the need for modernization due to the outdated state of many existing correctional facilities, some of which date back to the 19th century. The relocation plan is part of a larger initiative to address infrastructural challenges affecting the efficiency of the correctional system.
The minister highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance the welfare of correctional officers and stressed the importance of a rehabilitative approach within the correctional system. He also mentioned the significant improvements made under President Tinubu’s administration, including the overhaul of the promotion system for paramilitary officers.
Furthermore, Tunji-Ojo discussed the vision for professionalizing correctional services and ensuring recruitment practices meet international standards. The Acting Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, expressed enthusiasm for the new vehicles and guard booths, emphasizing their role in addressing operational challenges and improving court attendance for inmates.
Nwakuche also underscored the importance of the new fleet in reducing the population of pretrial detainees and contributing to the swift administration of justice. He commended NCoS officers for their dedication and urged them to use the new resources responsibly to build a correctional system aligned with principles of justice and security.