By Victoria Onehi
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) Staff Chief Superintendent of Corrections (CSC) Olukemi Ibikunle emerged winner of the prestigious 2025 United Nations Trailblazer Award for Women Justice and Corrections Officers, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to corrections reform, inmate rehabilitation, and the promotion of human rights within custodial environments.
The award, conferred by the United Nations Department of Peace Operations (UNDPO), was presented by , Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina Mohammed, during a ceremony held at the UN Headquarters in New York. The award celebrates women professionals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to justice and correctional excellence across the globe. CSC Ibikunle’s selection followed a rigorous international vetting process that highlighted her professional distinction, integrity, and passion for humanitarian service.
Out of five nominees selected globally, two were officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service with CSC Olukemi Ibikunle being nominated for her work with the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) and Sarah Adole, for MINUSCO, a testament to the Service’s growing reputation for professionalism, integrity, and global relevance. CSC Olukemi Ibikunle emerged the overall winner, earning international recognition for her inspiring work in corrections, inmate rehabilitation, and gender inclusion.
Reacting to the news, the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, congratulated CSC Ibikunle for bringing pride and honour to the Service and the nation. He described her recognition as “a testament to the professionalism, competence, and global relevance of Nigerian correctional officers,” reaffirming the Service’s commitment to excellence, gender equity, and global best practices.
In a statement by the Deputy Controller of Corrections, Public Relations Officer,Umar Abubakar, CGC Nwakuche further stated that the award underscores the growing confidence of international institutions in the Nigerian Correctional Service’s capacity to contribute meaningfully to peacebuilding and correctional development at the global stage.
He encouraged other officers to emulate the award winner’s dedication, discipline, and professionalism, adding that her achievement reflects the new spirit of the Nigerian Correctional Service; a Service driven by reform, human dignity, and positive transformation.
