Abuja – The Federal Government has charged the newly appointed Controller-General of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, with a bold mandate: lay the groundwork for far-reaching reforms in the nation’s correctional system before November 2026.
At a formal decoration ceremony held in Abuja on Friday, Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, congratulated Nwakuche on his elevation and emphasized that while reforms are ongoing, much more is needed to ensure a sustainable and efficient correctional system.
He urged the new NCoS boss to prioritize rehabilitation over punishment, asserting that Nigeria’s 256 custodial centres must become institutions of transformation and hope, not condemnation.
“The onus is now on you to design and implement strategies for inmates to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s socio-economic development. Do not disappoint Mr. President, do not disappoint me. Ensure that our custodial facilities become centres for correction, not breeding grounds for recidivism,” the Minister charged.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo further warned that a return to crime by ex-inmates would signify a failure of the system under Nwakuche’s leadership.
“Nigeria has taken you to the top; give back to the nation the best of your capacity,” he added.
In his response, Controller-General Nwakuche unveiled a comprehensive reform agenda that aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative. His priorities include:
- Enhanced security across custodial centres
- Decongestion of overcrowded facilities
- Infrastructure development
- Capacity building and improved welfare for correctional officers
- Inmates’ welfare and rehabilitation programs
- Improved juvenile justice and offender management
- Strategic partnerships and stakeholder engagement
Nwakuche underscored the importance of collaboration in achieving sustainable reform.
“Correctional transformation cannot happen in isolation. I have made it a point to engage development partners and sister agencies to unlock system-wide opportunities for growth,” he said.
Since assuming office in an acting capacity on December 16, 2024, Nwakuche disclosed that he had met with over 25 heads of key institutions as of April 30, 2025.
“These engagements are already yielding results and will serve as the backbone of stronger institutional partnerships moving forward,” he affirmed.
With clear expectations from the government and a reform-focused agenda, stakeholders are watching closely to see how Nwakuche steers the Correctional Service toward becoming a true catalyst for national development.
