By Deborah Nnamdi
The Federal Government has reported that 59,786 inmates out of a total population of 80,879 have been documented across 256 custodial centres nationwide.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the spokesperson of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Deputy Controller of Corrections Abubakar Umar, who noted that the figure accounts for 74 percent of the inmate population.
Umar also refuted claims that the National Identity Number (NIN) registration exercise had not yet begun in all custodial centres, labeling the report as misleading, inaccurate, and unrepresentative of the current situation within the facilities.
Umar said;“The Service wishes to categorically state that the NIN registration of inmates in our custodial centres is not only ongoing but has recorded significant progress. A majority of inmates across various custodial centres nationwide have already been successfully enrolled into the National Identity Database through the collaborative efforts of the Service and the National Identity Management Commission NIMC.
“Available data show that as at 7thJune, 2025, out of the total of 80, 879 inmates’ population, 59,786 inmates approximately 74% have been captured into the NIMC platform.
“The registration of the remaining inmates is actively in progress, and mechanisms have been put in place to ensure its seamless completion.
“The claim that the registration has ‘yet to commence’ in custodial centres is factually incorrect and fails to acknowledge the substantial work already done.
“The Service remains committed to the full integration of inmates into national data systems, including the NIN, as part of broader efforts to promote rehabilitation, reintegration, and the digital inclusion of all persons in custody.
“The Service therefore urges members of the media to verify information with relevant authorities before publication, in order to avoid spreading misinformation that may mislead the public and undermine ongoing institutional efforts”, he stated.
