- The inmate population includes 82,821 males and 1,920 females
The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) is awaiting instructions to carry out the execution of 3,590 inmates currently on death row, according to spokesperson Abubakar Umar.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria on Wednesday, Mr Umar revealed that these inmates are part of the 84,741 individuals held across the country’s custodial centres as of September 3, 2024.
The inmate population includes 82,821 males and 1,920 females. Of these, 57,750 are awaiting trial, while 21,900 have been convicted. Among the convicted, 1,501 are serving life sentences. The death row inmates comprise 3,517 males and 73 females.
Mr Umar acknowledged that the high number of awaiting trial inmates poses a significant challenge for the NCoS, but he assured that efforts are being made to address the issue. Initiatives include reducing the inmate population through the release of 4,063 individuals who were given the option to pay fines or compensation, expanding community sentencing, and constructing new facilities.
Additionally, the NCoS has focused on enhancing security within custodial facilities and improving the treatment and care of inmates. Notably, a partnership with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has enabled 1,282 inmates to enroll in academic programs, including advanced degrees.
Mr Umar highlighted the NCoS’s commitment to maintaining a secure environment and ensuring the successful reintegration of inmates into society.