Nigerian Correctional Service Spends Over N3.3bn in Two Months on Feeding Awaiting-Trial Inmates as Prison Population Rises, Amid Efforts to Fast-Track Trials and Implement Non-Custodial Measures
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has spent more than N3.3 billion on feeding awaiting-trial inmates in just two months, NEWS REVIEW has learned.
As of January 2025, the number of awaiting-trial inmates stood at 48,932 but surged to 53,254 by the end of February, according to figures on the NCoS website.
The increase in inmate numbers, coupled with President Bola Tinubu’s decision to raise the daily feeding allowance per inmate from N750 to N1,125, has placed a significant strain on the NCoS budget.
With an average of 50,000 inmates fed daily over 60 days, the cost exceeded N3.3 billion.
Acting Controller-General Sylvester Nwakuche has pledged to address the backlog of awaiting-trial cases. He plans to collaborate with state chief judges, attorneys-general, and the Inspector-General of Police to fast-track trials.
Nwakuche also stressed the importance of non-custodial measures like parole and community service to curb the rising inmate population.
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