L-R: Secretary to CDCFIB, Maj. Gen. Abdulmalik Jibrin (Rtd); Chairman House of Representatives Committee on Reformatory Institutions Hon. Chinedu N. Ogah, Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani and the CG Correctional Service Sylvester N. Nwakuche during the courtesy visit in Abuja
By Victoria Onehi
In advancing reforms in the Nigerian correctional system,about 4550 inmates have regained freedom.
Some of the inmates who regained freedom are minors, inmates with bailable offences and those with cases of prolonged incarceration.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo proudly reported progress in reform efforts, revealing a drop in inmate numbers from over 86,000 to approximately 81,450.
The Minister explained this when the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Reformatory Institutions, Hon. Chinedu N. Ogah, and other members of his Committee paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry recently.
Tunji-Ojo who reaffirmed his passion for the Nigerian Correctional Service, described it as the agency closest to his heart due to its focus on humanity and justice. “Our government is working hard to enhance the strength of our institutions and ensure that even the most forgotten citizens are not left behind.”
Highlighting the shared vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasised that the government’s strength is not measured by how it treats the powerful, but by how it uplifts the weakest in the society. “Our correctional centres house the most vulnerable, those whose freedom of movement and choice have been legally curtailed. It is our moral and constitutional duty to ensure they are treated with dignity and fairness,” he said.
The Minister in a statement by the Director Press and Public Relations, Ozoya Imohimi, expressed his deep appreciation to the visiting legislators. “Your visit is not only symbolic but deeply appreciated,” he said. The Minister particularly acknowledged the unwavering support received during past initiatives, noting that the success of such efforts would not have been possible without the backing of dedicated lawmakers.
The Minister praised the harmonious working relationship between the executive and legislature, describing it as a model of interdependence rather than rivalry. “We must appreciate where we’re coming from to value how far we have come. The current synergy between the arms of the government is what is driving real change,” he added.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo reiterated his open-door policy and his readiness to work closely with the National Assembly for a better, more inclusive interior sector.
Earlier in his remarks, the House Committee Chairman on Reformatory Institutions, Hon. Chinedu Ogah said the purpose of their visit was to commend the Minister and his team for effective and innovative achievements in the country’s security space
He added that the remarkable landmarks in the reformatory institutions are in line with the president’s agenda to reposition the country for greatness.
