There are at least 3,590 inmates on death row in Nigeria’s custodial centers, according to the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).
NCoS Public Relations Officer, Assistant Controller of Corrections Abubakar Umar shared this information with the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, in Abuja.
Mr. Umar said that as of September 3, 2024, there are 84,741 inmates in centers across Nigeria. This number includes 82,821 males and 1,920 females.
He reported that there are 57,750 Awaiting Trial Inmates (ATIs), consisting of 56,303 males and 1,447 females.
Mr. Umar provided a breakdown of inmate categories:
Convicted inmates total 21,900, including 21,519 males and 381 females.
Lifers number 1,501, with 1,478 males and 23 females.
The 3,590 inmates on Death Row include 3,517 males and 73 females.
Mr. Umar mentioned that the high number of Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs) is a major challenge for the Service. He assured that steps are being taken to address this issue and ensure timely judicial processing for ATPs.
He noted that, thanks to the support of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the inmate population was reduced by releasing 4,063 individuals who paid fines or compensation.
The Service is also working to reduce overcrowding by building new facilities, expanding community sentencing, improving court logistics, and implementing other measures.
Mr. Umar highlighted that partnerships with other agencies have improved security and led to better conditions in custodial facilities. He added that the Service has enhanced security measures to protect against external threats and has maintained a stable environment inside the facilities with no internal disturbances.
He also noted improvements in inmate care, including personal reformation, rehabilitation programs, and successful reintegration into society.
The partnership between NCoS and the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has been fruitful. As of August 31, 2024, 1,282 inmates were enrolled in NOUN’s special study center.
Here’s the breakdown of their programs:
1,215 inmates are studying for a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc).
62 inmates are pursuing Post Graduate Diplomas (PGD) or Master’s degrees.
Five inmates are working towards Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees, and three are currently writing their theses.
