The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has reported that the current number of inmates on death row stands at 3,590 across its custodial centers. This information was disclosed by NCoS Public Relations Officer, Assistant Controller of Corrections (ACC) Abubakar Umar, in a statement released on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, in Abuja.
As of September 3, 2024, the total inmate population is 84,741, consisting of 82,821 males and 1,920 females. Among these, 57,750 are Awaiting Trial Inmates (ATIs), with 56,303 males and 1,447 females. The total number of convicted inmates is 21,900, and 1,501 are serving life sentences.
Umar noted that the high number of Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs) poses a significant challenge, but efforts are being made to address this issue. He highlighted that, with the support of the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the NCoS has reduced the inmate population by releasing 4,063 individuals who were either given the option to pay fines or compensation.
To combat custodial congestion, the NCoS is constructing new facilities, expanding community sentencing, and improving court logistics. Additionally, there have been notable improvements in inmate treatment and rehabilitation. As of August 31, 2024, 1,282 inmates are enrolled in the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) special study center. This includes 1,215 students pursuing Bachelor of Sciences degrees, 62 in Post Graduate Diploma and Master’s programs, and five working towards PhDs.