FG Strengthens Accountability, Unveils Reform Agenda For Nigerian Correctional Service
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional reform with the formal presentation of the report of the Independent Investigative Panel on alleged misconduct within the Nigerian Correctional Service.
The report was unveiled during a high-level stakeholders’ engagement convened by the Ministry of Interior, bringing together key representatives from government, the justice sector, security agencies, civil society organisations, and development partners.
Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said the establishment of the panel reflected the government’s resolve to undertake a thorough and honest assessment of challenges within the correctional system rather than a superficial review. He noted that the panel, inaugurated on November 24, 2024, completed its assignment after 16 months of extensive investigations, consultations, and analysis.
According to the Minister, the panel’s work marks a critical step toward strengthening institutional integrity within the Nigerian Correctional Service.
“We chose to confront these challenges directly because we believe they present an opportunity for lasting reform,” he said.
The investigation followed serious allegations, including corruption, abuse of authority, and human rights violations within correctional facilities. Its findings highlight the need to align operations with global standards of justice, professionalism, and respect for human dignity.
Tunji-Ojo stressed that correctional centres must evolve beyond custodial functions to become institutions focused on reformation, rehabilitation, reintegration, and broader societal transformation.
He added that the report would guide comprehensive reforms aimed at addressing systemic gaps, improving staff welfare, and enhancing service delivery, while calling for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to ensure meaningful change.
In his remarks, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), commended the Interior Minister for his leadership and described the initiative as a milestone in strengthening accountability and public trust in the justice system.
Fagbemi reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting human rights through strengthened institutional frameworks, including the National Human Rights Commission and its oversight mechanisms. He also highlighted the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, as a key milestone in transitioning from a punitive system to a modern correctional model centred on rehabilitation and reintegration.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and Chairperson of the Investigative Panel, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, described the engagement as a platform for dialogue, reflection, and collective ownership of reform outcomes. She emphasized that the panel’s work was guided by fairness, independence, and a commitment to the public interest.
Goodwill messages from key stakeholders, including the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, the Nigerian Bar Association, the Conference of Speakers, and UNICEF, underscored the need for the report to drive concrete and measurable reforms. They collectively called for a correctional system that is humane, efficient, transparent, and aligned with both national and international human rights standards.
Participants also identified persistent challenges such as overcrowding, prolonged pre-trial detention, and gaps in implementing legal frameworks. They advocated for sustained reforms, including the expansion of non-custodial measures, improved access to justice, enhanced protection for vulnerable groups, stronger oversight mechanisms, and better welfare for correctional personnel.
The Minister formally declared the engagement open, urging stakeholders to approach the reform process with sincerity, objectivity, and a shared commitment to transforming the correctional system.
E-Signed
Mary Ali (Mrs)
Head, Press and Public Relations
Ministry of Interior
