FG Tasks New Correctional Service Boss to Drive Reforms Within 19 Months
The Federal Government has mandated the newly appointed Controller General (CG) of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, to consolidate and institutionalize ongoing reforms in the agency within the remaining 19 months of his tenure.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, issued the directive while officially decorating Nwakuche as the third substantive CG of the NCoS during a ceremony held Friday in Abuja.
Describing the appointment as strategic, Dr. Tunji-Ojo highlighted Nwakuche’s previous record in an acting capacity, expressing confidence that he would deepen reform initiatives aimed at transforming the correctional system and improving inmate welfare.
“You have about nineteen months to lay a solid foundation and elevate the standards of the Nigerian Correctional Service,” the Minister said. “From now on, every step you take will be part of your legacy—make sure you write a commendable script.”
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He emphasized the government’s vision for a correctional system that focuses on genuine rehabilitation rather than punishment, stating, “All inmates are now your responsibility. Our approach must shift—those awaiting trial should be seen as assets, not statistics.”
The Minister noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has placed his trust in Nwakuche and expects transformative leadership. “Do not let down yourself, do not let me down, do not disappoint Mr. President, and above all, do not disappoint God,” he added. “Build your team well—true leadership is defined by the quality of successors you produce.”
In his response, CG Nwakuche pledged to align his leadership with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration. He identified key priorities including enhanced inmate security, facility decongestion—especially for the over 70 percent awaiting trial—infrastructure upgrades, and staff welfare.
“We will renovate dilapidated custodial centres, construct new ones as needed, and invest in housing for staff to balance professional responsibilities with family life,” he stated.
Nwakuche also underscored the importance of comprehensive rehabilitation, promising improvements in feeding, healthcare, education, vocational training, and after-care programs to ensure meaningful reintegration of inmates into society.
By PRNigeria
