16,582 Prison Officials Promoted, FG Issues Misconduct Warning

The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to personnel of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) against forming criminal ties with inmates, emphasizing that such actions pose a significant threat to national security and undermine ongoing reforms in the correctional system.

This warning was delivered by the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, on Tuesday in Abuja, during a ceremony to decorate 16,582 officers who were promoted across various ranks in the service.

Nwakuche made it clear that misconduct among correctional officers, particularly collusion with inmates, would attract severe sanctions, stating, “This administration has zero tolerance for acts of indiscipline, particularly trafficking, compromise, or any form of unwholesome association with inmates. Such actions erode public trust, endanger institutional security, and sabotage the reform efforts of the Nigerian Correctional Service.”

The CG emphasized that the government would not condone any behaviour that compromises institutional safety, adding, “I wish to state clearly that this administration will not condone such misconduct and will not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law and relevant service regulations against any officer or staff found to be involved, regardless of rank or position.

The promotion exercise, which Nwakuche described as a milestone for the service, reflected growth and improved morale among personnel. He characterized the ceremony as “a moment to recognise dedication, professionalism, sacrifice, and the steady growth of our Service.” The CG acknowledged the role of President Bola Tinubu, commending him for his unwavering support for the reform of the correctional system and his continued commitment to strengthening security and justice sector institutions in Nigeria.

Nwakuche also praised the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for providing the leadership and approvals that facilitated the promotions.

According to him, the promotion exercise resulted in the elevation of a total of 16,582 officers and men, making it the highest number of promotions ever recorded in the history of the Nigerian Correctional Service.

Breaking down the figures, Nwakuche said 11,417 of those promoted were senior officers, while 4,253 were junior personnel. He explained that 128 junior officers were upgraded to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Corrections after acquiring the required academic qualifications, 89 Correctional Assistants were elevated to the Inspectorate cadre, and 689 Chief Correctional Assistants were converted to Inspectors after completing the prescribed course.

Additionally, six officers received special promotions for “gallantry and exceptional performance.”

In his congratulatory message to the newly promoted officers, Nwakuche reminded them that advancement comes with increased responsibility.

“Promotion brings not only honour and fulfilment, but increased responsibility. Higher ranks demand higher standards of discipline, integrity, leadership, and professionalism. Promotion is not an end in itself; it is a renewed call to service,” he stated.

The CG urged officers who were not promoted to remain patient and committed to their duties, assuring them that dedication and consistency would be rewarded. “Promotion is a process, and timing differs, but discipline, competence, and consistency never go unnoticed,” Nwakuche added.

This warning comes against the backdrop of ongoing reforms within the NCoS aimed at improving security, professionalism, and public confidence in custodial institutions.

In recent years, the service has faced challenges, including prison breaks, contraband smuggling, and allegations of collaboration between some personnel and inmates, prompting increased scrutiny of internal discipline and operational standards.