The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to relocating correctional centres built during the colonial era, citing security concerns and urban encroachment. Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this known during the presentation of an investigative report on custodial centres in Abuja.
Drop in recidivism rates
Tunji-Ojo disclosed that recidivism figures dropped significantly from 11,616 in 2023 to 1,382 in 2025. He attributed this decline to sustained investments in inmate rehabilitation and educational reform across custodial facilities. The minister also revealed that 15,632 inmates were admitted in May 2026, while 14,190 were released after completing their sentences.
Implementation of findings
The minister assured that the report's findings would be rigorously implemented, with an aggressive framework backed by an independent monitoring committee. “This report will not gather dust on the shelves,” he stated.
Relocation of colonial-era centres
Tunji-Ojo flagged several facilities for relocation, including the Suleja Custodial Centre built in 1914 and the Ikoyi facility built in 1955. He noted that urban encroachment has compromised the mandatory 100-metre security buffer zones in Enugu, Abakaliki, Ibadan, and Lagos, leaving some centres dangerously close to markets and government offices.
Appeal to state governments
The minister appealed to state governments to co-fund the relocation, as state judiciaries generate most of the custodial burden. He also confirmed that President Bola Tinubu approved a 50 per cent increase in inmate feeding allowances, already monetised by the Ministry of Finance. Tunji-Ojo challenged civil society organisations to monitor custodial kitchens for compliance.
Inspection and accountability
Permanent Secretary Dr Magdalene Ajani said the investigative panel inspected 86 custodial centres across 23 states. Controller-General Sylvester Nwakuche welcomed the report, describing the probe as a healthy exercise in institutional accountability.
