The Chairman of the House Committee on Reformatory Institutions and member representing Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency of Ebonyi State, Chinedu Ogah, has called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s correctional system to address the rising population of awaiting trial inmates across the country.
Ogah described the situation as worrisome, noting that pre-trial detainees now account for 64 percent of the total custodial population nationwide.
He made the observation during the 2026 budget defence session after the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Correctional Service, Sylvester Nwakuche, disclosed that awaiting trial inmates constitute the majority of inmates across correctional centres.
Nwakuche explained that the high number of pre-trial detainees has worsened congestion and overstretched correctional facilities nationwide. He presented the agency’s 2025 budget performance and 2026 budget estimates before the House Committee on Reformatory Institutions.
Describing the Nigeria Correctional Service as a vital pillar of the nation’s criminal justice system, Nwakuche highlighted its dual role in ensuring the safe custody of detainees and facilitating their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Ogah stressed the need for improved funding, modernised infrastructure, and accelerated presidential assent to the Correctional Service Trust Fund Bill. He reaffirmed the Committee’s commitment to strengthening legislative oversight, enhancing rehabilitation programmes, and repositioning the Nigeria Correctional Service for greater efficiency and alignment with global best practices.
