Reforming Nigeria Correctional Services

In the annals of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), a transformative chapter is being written under the lead­ership of acting Controller Gener­al of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche. 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 long-stand­ing challenges with 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 aggression. 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 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 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, position him as the ideal candidate to lead the NCoS into a new era of excellence.

Therefore, this is an earnest call on the President Bola Ahmed Tinu­bu whose renewed hope agenda is cascading all strata of the Nigerian society, including those in the low­er rung of the society, to encour­age Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche 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 long-stand­ing 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 writes from Abuja via hochay2000@yahoo. com (08091111250)