NCoS, Humanitarian Ministry unite on rehabilitation, poverty reduction drive

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has intensified efforts to strengthen the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates, following an engagement with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction in Abuja.

Sylvester Nwakuche, Controller-General of NCoS,  led a delegation on a courtesy visit to Bernard Doro, Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction,  as part of moves to deepen inter-agency collaboration within Nigeria’s criminal justice system.

 Nwakuche commended the ministry for its interventions targeted at vulnerable populations across the country, noting that closer collaboration would significantly improve outcomes for inmates transitioning back into society.

He said the partnership would focus on key areas including rehabilitation programmes, capacity development, and agricultural initiatives within custodial centres.

According to him, aligning correctional programmes with federal social intervention schemes would enable ex-offenders to access support systems after release, easing their reintegration and reducing the likelihood of reoffending.

“The collaboration is critical to strengthening public safety and ensuring that inmates are better prepared for life after custody,” he said.

The Controller-General added that integrating ex-offenders into existing government welfare frameworks would help address the socio-economic challenges that often contribute to recidivism.

In his remarks, Olubunmi Olusanya, Permanent Secretary of the ministry,  described the visit as both timely and strategic, citing the strong alignment between the mandates of the ministry and the correctional service, particularly in addressing the needs of vulnerable groups.

Responding,  Doro, the Minister, reaffirmed the ministry’s readiness to support initiatives that promote inmate welfare and successful reintegration.

He highlighted the National Social Register as a key platform for delivering government interventions, noting that it already captures millions of beneficiaries nationwide.

Doro disclosed plans to harmonise data between the NCoS and the National Social Register to ensure that eligible ex-offenders can benefit from social protection programmes.

As part of this effort, he approved the establishment of a joint technical committee and requested nominations from the correctional service to develop a framework for implementation.