NCoS Spends ₦14bn Feeding Awaiting-Trial Inmates in Eight Months
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has revealed that it spent more than ₦14 billion feeding inmates awaiting trial between January and August 2025.
Records obtained by Hobnob News show a steady rise in the number of individuals held in custody without trial during the period under review.
In January, awaiting-trial inmates stood at 48,932. The figure rose to 52,771 in February, 53,254 in March, and 52,937 in April. By June, the number climbed to 53,178, before reaching 53,473 in July. As of August 25, 53,114 inmates were still in custody awaiting trial.
On average, the population of awaiting-trial inmates during this eight-month period stood at approximately 52,665.
The rise in expenditure follows the Federal Government’s decision to increase the daily feeding allowance for inmates from ₦750 to ₦1,125 under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
With an average of 52,665 inmates fed daily at ₦1,125 each, the NCoS spends about ₦59.2 million every day. Over 237 days — from January 1 to August 25 — this amounts to roughly ₦14.04 billion.
Speaking on the matter, NCoS spokesperson Umar Abubakar said the service, under the leadership of Controller-General Sylvester Nwakuche, remains committed to meeting its constitutional duty of providing daily meals to inmates across custodial centres nationwide.
He stressed that despite economic pressures and inflation, the service continues to deliver timely and adequate nutrition to inmates through partnerships with relevant government agencies and food contractors.
“Feeding inmates is not just about sustenance, but about upholding their rights and ensuring humane corrections. Prioritising welfare is central to rehabilitation and reintegration,” Abubakar said.
He added that the Service is open to collaboration with civil society groups and oversight bodies to maintain standards and ensure transparency in its operations.
