President Bola Tinubu has approved the relocation of 29 correctional centres, also known as prisons, from urban areas across the country.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo states this on Friday during the unveiling of some operational vehicles for the Nigerian Correctional Service.
The Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing security and decongesting cities by moving correctional facilities to more suitable locations
“Suleja Correctional Centre was established in 1950, Ikoyi in 1956, and we even have facilities dating back to the 19th century. We cannot continue to work with such outdated infrastructure.
“The President has graciously approved for us to start the process of relocating 29 correctional centres,” he stated.
The minister emphasised the urgent need for modernisation to improve conditions for both correctional officers and inmates, noting that the relocation is part of a larger plan to address the infrastructural challenges hindering the effectiveness of the correctional system.
He also reassured the public of the government’s commitment to reform, saying, “We have to solve these problems one by one, and I want to assure you that the process of relocating these correctional centres has already started.”
Tunji-Ojo further noted that this move is essential for creating a more effective and rehabilitative correctional system, as the current facilities no longer meet modern standards. The minister also spoke about ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of correctional officers.
“We are making progress. We are not yet where we need to be, but we are certainly not where we were,” he stated, referencing significant
improvements in officer promotions and welfare.
He added that relocating the correctional centres would further enhance the government’s broader reform agenda, which includes better conditions for both inmates and officers. The minister highlighted the significant improvements made under President Tinubu’s administration regarding the welfare of correctional officers.
