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By Henry Udutchay
In the annals of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), a transformative chapter is being written under the astute leadership of Acting Controller General of Corrections Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni. Since assuming office on 15 December, 2024, following the retirement of his predecessor, Haliru Nababa, Nwakuche has embarked on a mission to revitalize the NCoS, addressing longstanding challenges with great panache, innovative solutions, and unwavering commitment.
Born in 1966, in Oguta, Imo State, Nwakuche’s journey in the NCoS spans over three decades. He commenced his career in 1990 as an Assistant Superintendent of Corrections, progressively ascending through the ranks to become Deputy Controller General in 2020. His academic credentials are equally impressive, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Calabar in Cross River state, a Master’s in Political Science from the University of Lagos, and a Diploma in French Language. A fellow of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, he is also a recipient of the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
Upon his appointment as Acting Controller General, Nwakuche articulated a clear vision for the Service, emphasizing the need to build upon existing reforms while introducing fresh strategies aimed at enhancing security of correctional centres, promoting inmates’ rehabilitation, addressing the age-long overcrowding conundrum, and improving the welfare of personnel. He has also underscored the importance of teamwork, transparency, and innovation in tackling the multifaceted challenges faced by the service.
One of the most pressing issues confronting the NCoS is the chronic overcrowding of custodial facilities, which house over 80,000 inmates, many of whom are awaiting trial. Nwakuche is implementing new strategies to alleviate this burden, focusing on expansion of custodial centres, implementation of non-custodial measures, collaboration with stakeholders in the administration of criminal justice, and the enhancement of reformatory programmes. These initiatives aim not only to decongest facilities but also to facilitate the smooth reintegration of reformed individuals into society as productive citizens.
More so, the Acting Controller General has in this short period in the saddle demonstrated remarkable leadership in enhancing security across custodial centres. Drawing from extensive experience he garnered as a former head of the Operations Directorate of the Service, he is currently implementing strategic measures to fortify these facilities against breaches, unlawful escapes, and external aggressions. Additionally, he has prioritized intelligence gathering and inter-agency collaboration, fostering stronger partnerships with sister security agencies to prevent and swiftly respond to threats.
Recognizing that a motivated and well-trained workforce is pivotal to the success of the NCoS, Nwakuche has placed significant emphasis on staff training as well as their general well-being. As the former Deputy Controller General in charge of Training and Staff Development, he understands the critical role that continuous training and retraining of his personnel plays in operational efficiency. Under his leadership, there has been a renewed focus on capacity-building programmes, aimed at equipping personnel with the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of contemporary correctional management.
Also, the Acting Controller General has significantly advanced the reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates, leveraging his vast experience as the former head of the Directorate of Inmates Training and Productivity, which saw a spike in revenue generated from farm centres, workshops and cottage industries. His tenure has been marked by strategic initiatives that focus on skill acquisition, ensuring that inmates are better prepared for life after imprisonment. These are aimed at enhancing employability and reducing recidivism by providing inmates with viable means of livelihood upon release.
Nwakuche has also been proactive in reshaping the public image and perception of the NCoS. He is engaging with various stakeholders, including heads of security agencies, community leaders, non-governmental organizations, and international partners, to foster collaboration and garner support for the Service. By promoting staff discipline, transparency and accountability, he seeks to rebuild public trust and underscore the Service’s commitment to its statutory mandates which has been the target of the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
There is no doubt that since his appointment, Dr. Tunji-Ojo has implemented significant reforms to modernize correctional centres and bring them up to international standard. A notable initiative was the release of 4,086 inmates to address overcrowding, facilitated by N585 million raised through corporate social responsibility efforts. This move not only reduced inmate numbers but also alleviated resource strain. Additionally, the daily feeding allowance for inmates was increased, ensuring better nutrition for incarcerated persons. More so, correctional facilities have undergone renovations, exemplified by the upgraded Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, FCT, aligning with global standards.
Given Dr. Tunji-Ojo’s dedication to public service and nation-building, and the remarkable strides made under Nwakuche’s stewardship in such a short period, it is imperative to consider the long-term benefits of sustained leadership in the NCoS.
Nwakuche’s comprehensive experience and understanding of the correctional system in particular and the criminal justice system in general, coupled with his innovative approach to reform the system, positions him as the ideal candidate to lead the NCoS into a new era of excellence.
Therefore, this is an earnest call on the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose renewed hope agenda is cascading all strata of the Nigerian society, including those in the lower wrung of the society, to confirm Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche as the substantive Controller General of Corrections, and consider extending his tenure to continue this lofty transformation in the Service. Such a decision would not only acknowledge his exemplary service but also ensure the continuity of the transformative initiatives he has set in motion.
In conclusion, the NCoS stands at a pivotal juncture, with the opportunity to overcome longstanding challenges through visionary and transformative leadership.
Nwakuche has demonstrated, through action and intent, his dedication to reforming the system. By confirming and extending his tenure, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would be endorsing a future where the correctional service fulfills its statutory mandates, thereby contributing to a safer society and by extension, improved national security.
• Chief Udutchay, 08091111250, Abuja, Nigeria Email: [email protected]
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