The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has revealed that 27,416 inmates across custodial centres nationwide have been convicted, while 50,703 others remain in custody awaiting trial as 2025 draws to a close.
The figures, contained in the latest statistics released by the NCoS and reviewed by Hobnob News on Friday, underscore the persistent challenge of overcrowding in correctional facilities, largely driven by the high number of Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs).
According to the Service, the growing population of inmates yet to be tried has placed a significant financial burden on the Federal Government. With the NCoS spending an estimated ₦1,125 daily to feed each inmate, the cost of maintaining more than 50,000 awaiting-trial inmates has substantially increased government expenditure on custodial centres nationwide.
Hobnob News gathered that many of those awaiting trial are facing serious charges, including murder, armed robbery, and culpable homicide. These cases often require extensive investigations and prolonged prosecution, contributing to delays within the judicial process.
In January 2025, the Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Nwakuche, disclosed that 48,932 awaiting-trial inmates were being held across the country. At the time, he announced plans to engage the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Inspector-General of Police, and other key stakeholders to accelerate the trial process.
However, by December, the number of awaiting-trial inmates had risen to 50,703, highlighting ongoing challenges in the administration of justice.
As part of efforts to reform the correctional system and enhance inmate safety, Nwakuche recently warned personnel against forming improper relationships with inmates, noting that such conduct undermines ongoing reforms and exacerbates systemic issues such as overcrowding and delayed trials.
The Controller-General emphasized that any form of collusion with inmates would attract severe sanctions, reaffirming the Service’s commitment to institutional integrity and reform.
