Prison Congestion: Calls for Resolution of Minor Cases to Decongest Facilities
The Federal Government has successfully rehabilitated 3,030 inmates across correctional facilities, equipping them with vocational skills to aid reintegration into society. This initiative is part of ongoing reforms to enhance correctional services and decongest overcrowded prisons in Nigeria.
Vocational Training for Inmates
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this development during a Ministerial Press Briefing organized by the Ministry of Information and National Orientation in Abuja. He emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming correctional facilities by providing skill acquisition programs, including carpentry, tailoring, poultry farming, fishery, and hairdressing.
“Between July and December 2024, 3,030 inmates were rehabilitated with vocational training. Additionally, Violent Extremist Offenders (VEOs) underwent rehabilitation under the De-radicalization Programme of the Nigerian Correctional Service,” said Dr. Tunji-Ojo.
Education and Reintegration Efforts
The government is also facilitating academic advancement for inmates. Over 50 prisoners are currently enrolled in academic courses at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) Special Study Centres. Additionally, the Nigerian Correctional Service has empowered 32 discharged inmates with post-release support materials to aid their reintegration into society.
Strengthening Custodial Security
To prevent external attacks, security at custodial centers has been reinforced. Measures include biometric data capturing for inmates in collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to enhance record-keeping and security.
Expansion of Federal Marriage Registries
The Ministry has expanded its Federal Marriage Registries, establishing new centers in Jalingo (Taraba), Akure (Ondo), Ibadan (Oyo), Makurdi (Benue), Asaba (Delta), and Uyo (Akwa Ibom) to improve marriage documentation services across the country.
Modernization of Firefighting Services
As part of ongoing public safety initiatives, the Federal Fire Service has implemented advanced communication networks and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology for efficient incident response. This initiative is managed by the National Fire Data Repository Centre (NFDRC) in collaboration with the National Fire Detection and Alarm System (NAFDAS).
e-Passport Rollout for Improved Immigration Services
In line with global best practices, the government has launched enhanced e-Passports at Nigerian missions in Italy, Sweden, the Netherlands, Russia, and Saudi Arabia to streamline passport processing for citizens abroad.
Government Commitment to Reform
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, commended Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s efforts, stating that his leadership aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The reforms are designed to improve service delivery and make government institutions more accessible to Nigerians.
For additional insights on correctional reforms, visit the Nigerian Correctional Service.
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