In a bold move to decongest prisons and cut costs, the Federal Government has released 4,082 minor offenders across the country.
This initiative, according to Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, will save Nigeria ₦1 billion annually while giving offenders a second chance at life.
A Step Towards Justice Reform
Speaking at a ministerial briefing in Abuja, Tunji-Ojo emphasized the government’s dedication to justice system reforms.
He pointed out that most of the released individuals were petty offenders, and their freedom allows them to reintegrate into society and become productive citizens.
More Support for Inmates
Beyond the mass release, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also approved an increase in feeding allowances for inmates, ensuring better welfare for those still in custody.
Additionally, the government plans to relocate 29 correctional centers currently situated too close to residential areas.
Under the new policy, prisons must be at least 100 meters away from homes to enhance security and community safety.
Upgrading Nigeria’s Correctional Facilities
Many of Nigeria’s 240+ correctional centers are outdated, with some dating back to 1914. To address this, the government has embarked on an extensive renovation project, upgrading over 3,000 buildings nationwide.
“If we know where we were, we will appreciate where we are,” Tunji-Ojo remarked, highlighting the progress made.
Tighter Border Security, Stronger Law Enforcement
The minister also reassured Nigerians that border security has significantly improved, making it harder for criminals to enter the country unnoticed.
With the establishment of a 21st-century border control center, a centralized passport processing system, and a visa issuance hub, Tunji-Ojo stated that Nigeria now has one of the most efficient security architectures in the region.
“No wanted person in the world can enter Nigeria without being caught,” he declared.
Crackdown on Illegal Mining
Beyond prison reforms, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has intensified efforts to tackle illegal mining, a sector where billions are lost annually.
So far, over 2,125 illegal mining sites have been dismantled, and more than 10,000 Agro Rangers have been deployed to protect agricultural investments and mediate farmer-herder conflicts.
A New Era of Criminal Justice in Nigeria
This sweeping reform signals a shift from punishment to rehabilitation, ensuring that those who commit minor infractions are not trapped in the cycle of imprisonment.
With enhanced security measures, improved prison conditions, and fairer justice policies, Nigeria is stepping into a new era of governance and law enforcement.
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