The Federal Government has earmarked more than ₦49 billion in its 2026 budget for the welfare, security, and rehabilitation of inmates. The allocation covers food, medical supplies, uniforms, prison repairs, and the purchase of arms and security equipment.

A breakdown of the budget reveals ₦40 billion for foodstuffs and catering materials, ₦1 billion for uniforms and other clothing, ₦1 billion for drugs and medical supplies, ₦5 billion for the rehabilitation and repair of prison facilities, and ₦861 million for prison biometrics, arms, ammunition, and other security equipment.

Data from the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) indicate that the country’s custodial centres currently house 77,438 inmates, with 50,357 awaiting trial.

Between 2019 and 2025, reports show that thousands of inmates, including those facing serious charges such as terrorism and armed robbery, escaped from 13 correctional facilities.

In February 2025, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo revealed that President Bola Tinubu approved the relocation of 29 correctional centres nationwide to modernise the custodial system. Many existing facilities, including those in Suleja and Ikoyi, were built in the 1950s and no longer meet contemporary standards.

Tunji-Ojo explained that the relocation and modernisation efforts are intended to improve conditions for both correctional officers and inmates, address long-standing infrastructural challenges, and create a more effective and rehabilitative correctional system. He noted that upgrading facilities is essential for enhancing both security and rehabilitation outcomes across the country.

In December, NCoS Controller General Sylvester Nwakuche called on the National Health Insurance Authority to extend its health insurance scheme to inmates. He stressed that the initiative seeks to address ongoing healthcare challenges within prisons and prevent avoidable deaths, emphasising that inmates, as a captive and underserved population, are entitled to quality healthcare like all other citizens.