Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has disclosed that the release of 4,082 minor offenders from various correctional facilities in the country which was originally aimed at addressing overcrowding in prisons has led to an annual saving of N1 billion.
Tunji-Ojo who highlighted government’s commitment to reform the justice system and ensure that minor offenders receive a fair chance at rehabilitation, said the minors, many of whom committed petty crimes, would have the opportunity to reintegrate into society and contribute positively.
Speaking at the ministerial press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, the minister said government had made significant improvements in passport issuance, border security and conditions of service.
Tunji-Ojo added that in conjunction with this release, President Bola Tinubu had approved an increase in feeding allowances for inmates.
He said in addition, the government planned to relocate 29 correctional centers situated too close to residential areas, reinforcing the policy that such facilities should be positioned at least 100 meters away from homes.
He further said ongoing renovations were set to upgrade over 3,000 buildings across more than 240 correctional facilities, many of which are decades old, with some dating back to 1914. He emphasised the importance of recognising the progress made, saying, “If we know where we were, we will appreciate where we are.”
He also added that due to improved security measures at the nation’s borders, it is now difficult for criminals to enter the country without being caught.
Tunji-Ojo emphasised that President Tinubu’s leadership reforms are improving the lives of Nigerians while maintaining national security.
The minister highlighted the establishment of a 21st-century border control center within the Nigeria Immigration Service, a visa issuance center and the centralisation of passport processing.
He emphasised that with the new border security architecture, no criminal can enter Nigeria without being apprehended, asserting, “This is a government that understands security. No wanted persons in the world can enter Nigeria without being caught.”
He said the ministry, through the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), had established the Mining Marshals to address illegal activities in the mining industry, where significant revenue losses occur.
“As a result, over 2,125 illegal mining sites have been dismantled, and the NSCDC has trained more than 10,000 Agro Rangers to support the agriculture sector.
“Agro Rangers are a specialised unit within the NSCDC focused on protecting agricultural investments, mediating conflicts between farmers and herders, and ensuring the safety of agricultural communities,” he said.
The minister also highlighted improvements in firefighting infrastructure, noting that the Federal Fire Service (FFS) had initiated comprehensive upgrades to its capabilities.
He said Key achievements include the enhancement of communication systems through the implementation of an advanced network for improved coordination during emergencies.
“This includes the integration of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology for enhanced incident mapping and response planning, facilitated by the National Fire Data Repository Centre (NFDRC) in partnership with the National Fire Detection and Alarm System (NAFDAS). “
Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasised that the FFS’s responsibilities extend beyond firefighting. As first responders, the government is investing in the remodeling of the National Fire Academy to not only strengthen services for Nigeria but also to position it as a source of rescue expertise for the rest of Africa.
