The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has once more refuted allegations that inmates in its custodial facilities are malnourished and inadequately fed.
In a statement issued on Sunday, May 4, the service’s spokesperson, Abubakar Umar, labeled the allegations as untrue, deceptive, and a severe distortion of the actual conditions within our centers.
“While responding to the same allegation on TVC News on 1st September 2024, I highlighted that the Service operates under strict guidelines as provided by the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, which mandates the provision of adequate nutrition, healthcare, and general welfare for all inmates.
Inmates are provided with meals that meet the nutritional requirements recommended by health professionals and monitored routinely by the ration committee set up by the Controller General of Corrections. Our menu plans are standardized and reviewed periodically to align with evolving health standards and budgetary provisions.
Also, in response to current economic realities and rising inflation, the Federal Government of Nigeria has recently approved an increase in the daily feeding allowance for inmates in custodial centres from the previous rate to ₦1,125 per inmate per day.
This adjustment is aimed at ensuring that inmates receive adequate and nutritious meals in line with acceptable welfare standards.”
According to him, this increase demonstrates the government’s dedication to the humane treatment of individuals in custody and the wider reforms being carried out within the Nigerian Correctional Service to maintain dignity, human rights, and international best practices.
Umar clarified that the feeding of inmates is not done in secret, as multiple independent oversight bodies, including the Ministry of Interior, civil society organizations, and international partners, regularly evaluate the conditions in our custodial facilities.
“None of their recent reports support the dehumanizing portrayal circulated by certain individuals or interest groups about the welfare of inmates.
The general public is assured that the Service remains committed to upholding the rights and dignity of all inmates in line with international best practices,” he stated.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
