The Federal Government has pledged sweeping reforms of Nigeria’s correctional system following the submission of the report of the Independent Investigative Panel on alleged corruption, abuse of power, torture, and other forms of inhumane treatment within the Nigerian Correctional Service.
Receiving the report, the Minister of Interior said the findings would serve as a blueprint for transforming correctional facilities into centres of rehabilitation and reintegration.
“The findings will serve as a strong foundation for transforming our correctional facilities from mere places of incarceration into true centres of rehabilitation, reformation, restoration, and reintegration,” he said.
The panel, chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, completed its assignment after 18 months of investigations following its inauguration in November 2024.
The minister noted that ongoing reforms within the correctional system are already yielding results, citing a significant drop in recidivism.
“The rate of recidivism has drastically declined from 11,616 inmates in 2023 to 1,382 inmates in 2025 due to intentional rehabilitation efforts,” he stated.
He disclosed that 62 inmates are currently pursuing postgraduate studies, while 261 are enrolled in undergraduate programmes. According to him, 1,125 inmates are engaged in ongoing academic studies, while 9,582 others are undergoing vocational training in various skills.
Emphasising the role of correctional centres in national development, the minister said the focus must remain on rehabilitation rather than punishment alone.
“The essence of a correctional service must be transformational and corrective, ensuring compliance with the law while protecting society and restoring hope,” he said.
He assured Nigerians that the government would move quickly from the report stage to implementation.
“As a government, we are committed to ensuring that no Nigerian, whether free or in custody, is left behind. We will move aggressively from this report to a robust implementation strategy, supported by effective monitoring and evaluation frameworks that will deliver lasting change,” he said.
The minister stressed that the administration would no longer tolerate practices that undermine the dignity of inmates.
“Our goal is clear. Never again should our correctional centres be associated with dehumanisation, corruption, or discrimination. They must become places where lives are rebuilt and inmates are prepared as valuable assets for the growth and development of our dear nation,” he added.