The head of Nigeria’s Correctional Service on Tuesday 23 December,2025 warned officers against forming illicit ties with inmates, saying such misconduct threatens national security and undermines ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening the country’s custodial institutions.
At a ceremony in Abuja marking the promotion of 16,582 officers, the largest elevation exercise in the agency’s history, Controller‑General of Corrections Sylvester Nwakuche said the government would impose strict penalties on personnel found collaborating with inmates or engaging in other forms of compromise.
“This administration has zero tolerance for acts of indiscipline, particularly trafficking, compromise, or any form of unwholesome association with inmates,” Mr. Nwakuche said. “Such actions erode public trust, endanger institutional security, and sabotage the reform efforts of the Nigerian Correctional Service.”
He added that any officer implicated in misconduct—regardless of rank—would face the full weight of the law and internal disciplinary measures.
Mr. Nwakuche described the promotion exercise as a significant milestone for the service, calling it a recognition of “dedication, professionalism, sacrifice, and the steady growth of our service.” He credited President Bola Tinubu for supporting correctional reforms and praised Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji‑Ojo for providing the leadership that facilitated the promotions.
According to the Controller‑General, the newly promoted officers include 11,417 senior personnel and 4,253 junior staff. Among them are 128 officers upgraded to the rank of Assistant Superintendent after meeting academic requirements, 89 Correctional Assistants elevated to the Inspectorate cadre, and 689 Chief Correctional Assistants converted to Inspectors after completing mandatory training. Six officers received special promotions for what he described as “gallantry and exceptional performance.”
While congratulating the beneficiaries, Mr. Nwakuche reminded them that advancement comes with heightened expectations. “Promotion brings not only honour and fulfilment but increased responsibility,” he said. “Higher ranks demand higher standards of discipline, integrity, leadership, and professionalism.”
He urged officers who were not promoted to remain patient, saying that “discipline, competence, and consistency never go unnoticed.”
The warning comes as the Correctional Service continues efforts to address longstanding challenges, including prison breaks, contraband smuggling, and allegations of collusion between inmates and some personnel. These issues have raised concerns about internal discipline and the broader security of Nigeria’s custodial facilities.
The government has pledged to strengthen oversight and improve operational standards as part of a broader push to restore public confidence in the correctional system.
