The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on Friday, formally decorated Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche as the third substantive Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), at a brief but symbolic ceremony held in Abuja.
Nwakuche’s appointment, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, follows his earlier role in an acting capacity since December 15, 2024. His confirmation signals the administration’s confidence in his ability to lead the correctional system through a transformative era.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Tunji-Ojo tasked the new Controller-General with delivering a service that goes beyond punishment to one that truly reforms. “We do not want a condemnation service but a transformative one. We want custodial centres to be places where hope will be renewed,” the minister declared, stressing the need for a shift from punitive incarceration to purposeful rehabilitation.
In his inaugural address, Nwakuche unveiled a seven-point leadership agenda focusing on security, decongestion of custodial centres, infrastructure improvement, staff welfare, inmate rehabilitation, juvenile offender management, and enhanced inter-agency collaboration. He identified the alarming number of inmates awaiting trial—over two-thirds of the correctional population—as a critical concern.
To address the issue, the new Controller-General promised to engage with the judiciary and state governments to promote non-custodial alternatives and ensure faster dispensation of justice. “We must ease the pressure on our facilities and ensure that only those who truly need to be in custody remain there,” he said.
Nwakuche also highlighted plans to upgrade deteriorating facilities, build new correctional centres where needed, and provide decent housing for staff to improve productivity and morale. He emphasized that staff welfare would be prioritized through regular training, merit-based promotions, and performance-based incentives.
On inmate rehabilitation, Nwakuche promised a holistic approach covering feeding, healthcare, vocational training, and post-release reintegration. “The success of our mandate lies in how well we care for those in our custody,” he stated.
He also expressed strong commitment to reviving Borstal Institutions, describing them as vital to salvaging the lives of young offenders. “Our youths must not be lost to crime or the streets. We must offer them correction and hope,” he said.
Nwakuche concluded with a pledge to uphold public protection through the reformation of offenders in line with global correctional standards. His appointment marks a pivotal moment for the NCoS as the service seeks to redefine its role in Nigeria’s criminal justice system.