The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCOS) has firmly denied recent reports claiming that inmates in custodial centres are being poorly fed.
In a statement released on Sunday, Umar Abubakar, the Deputy Controller of Corrections and Public Relations Officer for the NCOS, called these allegations “false” and “misleading,” insisting that they do not reflect the reality of conditions inside the country’s correctional facilities.
Abubakar explained that the reports are simply a repeat of old claims aimed at stirring up confusion and unrest, and he reassured the public that the NCOS operates in full compliance with the Nigerian Correctional Service Act of 2019. This law guarantees that all inmates receive adequate nutrition, healthcare, and overall welfare.
“As we made clear in September 2024 during an interview on TVC News, the NCoS follows strict guidelines to ensure that inmates are provided with meals that meet established nutritional standards,” Abubakar said. He emphasized that the meals are regularly monitored by a ration committee overseen by the Controller General of Corrections.
He also addressed concerns about rising costs due to inflation, revealing that the Federal Government recently approved an increase in the daily feeding allowance for inmates. The new amount is ₦1,125 per inmate per day, up from the previous allowance, reflecting the government’s continued commitment to providing humane treatment for those in custody.
“The increase in feeding allowances is part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that inmates receive nutritious meals, in line with both national welfare standards and international best practices,” Abubakar added.
Furthermore, he pointed out that the feeding conditions in custodial centres are not hidden or unmonitored. Independent oversight bodies, including the Ministry of Interior, civil society groups, and international partners, regularly assess the situation, and none of their reports support the negative portrayal circulating in the media.
Abubakar reassured the public that the NCoS is dedicated to upholding the rights and dignity of all inmates. He urged the media and the public to verify information before spreading it to prevent the circulation of misleading and sensationalized stories.
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