Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS)
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has issued a stern warning to its personnel, declaring that officers found negligent in their duties will face sanctions, amid rising concerns over frequent jailbreaks that have undermined the country’s custodial system….CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
Sylvester Nwakuche, Controller-General of the NCoS, gave the warning during the decoration of 30 newly promoted Assistant Controllers-General of Corrections in Abuja.
He expressed dismay over what he described as the “lackadaisical attitude” of zonal coordinators, state controllers, and custodial centre officers, stressing that negligence had been a major factor in repeated security breaches across the service.
“It is obvious that our Zonal Coordinators, State Controllers, and Officers-in-Charge of Custodial Centres have abdicated their duties.
“This is unacceptable and will no longer be tolerated. Any further abdication of responsibilities will surely attract the big stick,” Nwakuche declared.
Data revealed that between 2019 and 2025, at least 6,700 inmates escaped from 13 correctional facilities nationwide.
Of this number, more than 4,600 remain at large, while about 2,000 have been recaptured.
It also shows that many of the fugitives were awaiting trial for serious offences such as terrorism, armed robbery, and other violent crimes.
The Controller-General cautioned that the service could not afford further lapses, especially at a time when public confidence in the correctional system is fragile.
He reminded the newly promoted senior officers that their elevation was not ceremonial but a call to renewed discipline and proactive leadership.
“This promotion is not just a change of insignia; it is recognition of years of diligence, sacrifice, and unyielding commitment to duty.
“You are expected to lead by example and ensure that the system is secure, rehabilitative, and responsive,” he said.
Nwakuche also reaffirmed the service’s commitment to the vision of the NCoS Act 2019, which shifts the focus of corrections from punitive incarceration to rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders.
The NCoS boss emphasised that the service would continue to pursue reforms that prioritise professionalism, discipline, and accountability while ensuring that correctional facilities serve their purpose as centres of reformation and rehabilitation rather than escape points for dangerous criminals….CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
