The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has firmly dismissed recent allegations of poor feeding conditions in its custodial centres, describing the claims as false, misleading, and a distortion of current realities.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Controller of Corrections Umar Abubakar, clarified that inmates are provided with meals that meet nutritional standards recommended by health professionals and are regularly monitored by an internal ration committee.
“The publication in question is a recycled claim aimed at creating unnecessary public concern,” the statement read. “The NCoS operates under strict guidelines as stipulated by the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, which mandates the provision of adequate nutrition, healthcare, and general welfare for all inmates.”
Abubakar further revealed that, in response to rising economic pressures and inflation, the Federal Government recently approved an increase in the daily feeding allowance for inmates to ₦1,125 per person. He noted that this adjustment underscores the government’s commitment to humane treatment and aligns with ongoing reforms to uphold human rights and international best practices within the Service.
The statement also emphasized that inmate feeding is subject to independent oversight. Bodies such as the Ministry of Interior, civil society organizations, and international partners routinely assess the conditions in custodial centres, and none of their recent reports support the negative portrayal circulating in some quarters.
The NCoS assured the public of its continued commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of inmates and called on the media to verify information thoroughly to avoid disseminating misinformation that undermines the Service’s integrity and the dedication of its personnel.
