June 3, 2025
The Comptroller General, Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, has directed an immediate audit of all correctional facilities to assess potential vulnerabilities.
He also directed the activation of risk mitigation measures at high-risk centres, and reinforcement of surveillance and internal control mechanisms.
In a statement on Tuesday, Nwakuche warned that any lapses by personnel would attract severe consequences.
In the statement by the Service Public Relations Officer (SPRO), Abubakar Umar, Nwakuche tasked officials to focus on proactive strategies to prevent security breaches and ensure the integrity of custodial operations nationwide.
“This is not just about concrete walls and iron bars. It’s about trust, duty, and the safety of every Nigerian. The time for complacency is over.”
The controller general also directed them to identify and root out weak links within the custodial chain, and reminded them of the service zero-tolerance policy on negligence, collusion, or dereliction of duty.
“Any officer found complicit in any form of security lapse will face stiff sanctions,” he added.
Nwakuche listened to inputs from officers across the regions, commending constructive suggestions while issuing admonitions where necessary.
He called for renewed unity, vigilance, and professionalism among correctional staff, with emphasis on strengthening coordination with other security agencies and community stakeholders.
In attendance at the meeting were all zonal coordinators.
Also in attendance to address growing security concerns ahead of the festive season and anticipated heavy rains were commandants of Training colleges and schools, as well as state command controllers.
