The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) faces a mounting financial burden due to the rising cost of feeding awaiting-trial inmates. Over a two-month period, the NCoS expended over N3.3 billion on feeding this population, a figure driven by both an increase in the number of awaiting-trial detainees and a recent hike in the daily feeding allowance. The inmate population grew from 48,932 in early January 2025 to 53,254 by the end of February, reflecting a persistent challenge within the Nigerian justice system. This expansion, combined with President Bola Tinubu’s decision to raise the daily feeding allowance from N750 to N1,125 per inmate, has placed significant strain on the NCoS budget. Calculations based on an average of 50,000 awaiting-trial inmates over the two-month period reveal the substantial financial implications of these combined factors.
The escalating cost of inmate welfare underscores the systemic issue of prolonged pre-trial detention in Nigeria. Awaiting-trial detainees often spend extended periods incarcerated before their cases are heard, contributing to prison overcrowding and straining limited resources. This situation not only poses a financial challenge for the NCoS but also raises serious human rights concerns. The prolonged detention of individuals without trial undermines fundamental principles of justice and fairness, highlighting the need for urgent reforms within the criminal justice system.
In response to this growing crisis, the acting Controller-General of the NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, has outlined a strategic plan to address the backlog of awaiting-trial cases. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of the problem, Nwakuche has pledged to engage with key stakeholders across the justice sector. This collaborative approach aims to expedite the trial process and reduce the number of individuals languishing in pre-trial detention. By working with state chief judges, attorneys-general, and the Inspector-General of Police, the NCoS hopes to streamline judicial processes and ensure timely access to justice for all detainees.
Nwakuche’s plan also emphasizes the importance of implementing alternative sentencing options to reduce prison overcrowding. He advocates for greater utilization of non-custodial measures, such as parole and community service, for eligible offenders. These alternatives offer a more humane and cost-effective approach to criminal justice, diverting individuals from incarceration and allowing them to reintegrate into society. By promoting these alternative sentencing options, the NCoS seeks to address the root causes of prison overcrowding and alleviate the financial burden on the correctional system. Successful implementation of these measures will require collaboration with state executives and judicial authorities to ensure widespread adoption and effective oversight.
The financial strain on the NCoS highlights the urgent need for comprehensive reform within the Nigerian criminal justice system. Addressing the backlog of awaiting-trial cases requires a multifaceted approach involving judicial process improvements, increased collaboration between stakeholders, and a shift towards alternative sentencing options. By implementing these strategies, the NCoS can not only alleviate the financial burden of feeding a large pre-trial population but also uphold fundamental human rights and promote a more just and equitable criminal justice system.
The NCoS’s commitment to collaborating with other stakeholders, including state executives, judicial authorities, and law enforcement agencies, is crucial for achieving meaningful and sustainable change. These partnerships can facilitate information sharing, streamline processes, and ensure that all actors within the criminal justice system are working towards the common goal of reducing pre-trial detention and promoting fairer outcomes for all. Furthermore, continued engagement with civil society organizations and human rights advocates can provide valuable insights and ensure that reform efforts are aligned with international best practices and human rights standards. Ultimately, a comprehensive and collaborative approach is essential to address the complex challenges facing the Nigerian correctional system and ensure a more just and equitable future for all.
