Nigerian Correctional Service

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) is a paramilitary agency of the Nigerian government responsible for the custody of offenders, humane containment, and rehabilitation of inmates. Established by the Nigerian Correctional Service Act of 2019, it replaced the former Nigerian Prisons Service, reflecting a modern approach to correctional administration focused on rehabilitation, reintegration, and crime prevention.

Key Functions and Responsibilities:

• Custody of Offenders: Securely holding persons legally committed to prison, including awaiting-trial detainees and convicted offenders.
• Humane Containment: Ensuring the well-being of inmates by providing adequate healthcare, food, sanitation, and living conditions in accordance with international standards.
• Rehabilitation and Reintegration: Implementing programs aimed at reforming inmates, such as educational initiatives, vocational training, psychological counseling, and spiritual guidance, to facilitate their successful reintegration into society upon release.
• Correctional Operations: Managing and administering correctional facilities across Nigeria, including maximum, medium, and minimum-security prisons.
• Staff Development: Training and developing a professional workforce equipped to manage correctional facilities effectively and humanely.
• Collaboration: Working with other law enforcement agencies, the judiciary, and civil society organizations to achieve its mandate.

The NCoS plays a crucial role in the Nigerian justice system by providing a safe and secure environment for the management of offenders while also striving to transform them into law-abiding citizens.