Federal Gov’t Approves Relocation Of 29 Custodial Centres

The Federal Government has approved the relocation of 29 out of Nigeria’s 256 Custodial Centres due to rapid urbanisation.

Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this on Friday in Abuja during the commissioning of 39 mini-Green Maria for transporting inmates to and from court, along with five bullet-resistant guard booths at the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) headquarters.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo also explained that paramilitary jobs were not poverty alleviation schemes but rather serious career paths, with the establishment of a paramilitary academy aimed at fostering young talent for the Service.

“In terms of relocating our Correctional Centres, the President has graciously approved the relocation of about 29 of our Custodial Centres. The process has started, and we are determined to complete it,” the Minster said.

He further emphasised that the academy, similar to institutions like the Police Academy and the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), would serve as a degree-awarding institution to help nurture young Nigerians for lifelong careers in paramilitary roles.

“The idea is to catch them young,” the Minister added, noting that in some areas, custodial facilities are located near state government houses, markets, or residential areas.

The minister also unveiled five Bullet-Resistant Guard-booths stationed at various key locations, including the NCoS national headquarters in Abuja, Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre, and Maximum Security Custodial Centres in Port Harcourt, Kano, and Lagos. The booths, equipped with long-range surveillance capabilities and resistance to high-level threats such as 12.7mm ammunition, will bolster security at the facilities.

The vehicles and guard booths were part of NCoS’ efforts to address challenges related to inmate transportation and security, especially concerning Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs).

LEADERSHIP gathered that as of February 17, 2025, the total population of inmates stood at 80,066, with 66 per cent (53,225) being pre-trial inmates, highlighting the ongoing need for secure and efficient transportation to court.