The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a 50% increase in the feeding allowance for inmates in correctional facilities across the country.
This move is in response to mounting concerns about the welfare of prisoners and the impact of inflation on food costs.
The decision follows a viral video showing inmates at a correctional center in Calabar, Cross River State, lamenting poor feeding conditions.
In response, the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) addressed the situation, with the service’s spokesperson, Umar Abubakar, providing an official statement at an event in Abuja on Thursday, September 5.
Abubakar emphasized that the video does not accurately depict the current state of the correctional facilities, which have seen significant improvements since the reformation of the service.
“The viral video does not reflect the true state of the Nigeria Correctional Service or its mission to reform and rehabilitate inmates. We are thoroughly investigating the incident, but I cannot comment further until the inquiry is complete,” he stated.
The 50% increase in feeding allowance is part of broader efforts to address the rising cost of food and improve the welfare of inmates.
Abubakar noted that the NCoS is also focused on education and rehabilitation, highlighting that over 1,000 inmates are currently enrolled in various academic programs.
These include 282 inmates pursuing diplomas and master’s degrees, and six inmates working towards their PhDs, with three already writing their theses.
“The care we provide to inmates creates an environment conducive to learning and skill acquisition, helping them prepare for a better life after incarceration,” Abubakar added.
This development is seen as part of ongoing efforts to improve the conditions in correctional facilities nationwide.
