Fewer ex-convicts return to prison as correctional reforms progress
The Federal Government has reported a significant drop in the number of repeat offenders in Nigerian prisons. Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, attributed this improvement to ongoing rehabilitation and reformation programmes. He emphasized that while progress has been made, efforts will continue until recidivism is completely eliminated. Dr Magdalene Ajani highlighted the extensive work done by the investigative panel across multiple custodial centres.
What we know
- The number of repeat offenders decreased from 11,616 in 2023 to 3,156 in 2024, and further to 1,382 in 2025.
- Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo stated that 15,632 inmates were admitted and 14,190 released in May 2026.
- The Minister stressed the importance of fully implementing recommendations from the investigative report.
- A monitoring and evaluation committee will be established to ensure aggressive implementation of reforms.
- Dr Magdalene Ajani noted that 86 custodial centres in 23 states were visited during the investigation.
