The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has revealed that there are currently 3,590 inmates on death row across various custodial centers in Nigeria.
In a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, NCoS Public Relations Officer, Assistant Controller of Corrections Abubakar Umar, provided updates as of September 3, 2024. He reported that the total inmate population nationwide stands at 84,741, comprising 82,821 males and 1,920 females.
Umar also provided further details, stating that there are 57,750 inmates awaiting trial, comprising 56,303 males and 1,447 females.
He added that among the inmate population, 21,900 have been convicted, with 21,519 being male and 381 female. This group includes 1,501 inmates serving life sentences, of which 1,478 are male and 23 are female.
“The death row population consists of 3,517 males and 73 females, totaling 3,590,” he said.
Umar emphasised that the large number of awaiting trial convicts poses a considerable difficulty to the department. However, he stressed that steps are being taken to accelerate the court procedure for these persons.
“Thanks to the initiative and support of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, we have successfully reduced the inmate population by releasing 4,063 individuals who were given the option to pay fines or compensation.
“The Service is also addressing custodial congestion by constructing new facilities, expanding community sentencing, improving court logistics, and implementing various decongestion measures, in addition to releasing inmates,” he added.
Umar noted that the NCoS’s efforts to build partnerships with other agencies have led to enhanced security and positive outcomes in and around custodial facilities.
“The Service has reinforced the security of custodial facilities against external threats, ensuring a stable and secure environment within our facilities, with no incidents of internal unrest,” he stated.
Umar also highlighted the significant improvements made by the NCoS in the treatment and care of inmates, focusing on personal reformation, rehabilitation programs, and successful reintegration into society.
He pointed out that the collaboration between NCoS and the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has yielded substantial results, with a significant number of inmates participating in various academic programs, including advanced degrees, while serving their sentences.
As of August 31, 2024, 1,282 inmates were enrolled in the special study center at NOUN.
“A breakdown of their various programs shows that as of August 31, 1,215 inmates are pursuing Bachelor of Science degrees through NOUN.
“Additionally, 62 inmates are studying for Postgraduate Diplomas and Master’s degrees, and five inmates are working toward Doctor of Philosophy degrees, with three currently writing their thesis,” he said.