By Abuja, Nigeria – According to Ponyaka Nandang, the Controller of Corrections (Probation) of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Over 64,000 inmates have received non-custodial sentences in Nigeria from 2021 to 2025. This was explained during a public hearing in Abuja on Thursday, August 14. Non-custodial sentences, which serve as alternatives to imprisonment, include community service, suspended sentences, fines, probation, and restitution orders. These measures aim to rehabilitate offenders and alleviate prison overcrowding.
Nandang disclosed that from 2021 to 2024, a total of 54,523 inmates (49,463 men and 5,060 women) were placed under non-custodial measures nationwide. Additionally, between January and June 2025, another 10,406 inmates (9,207 men and 1,199 women) received similar sentences. However, he noted ongoing challenges such as inadequate funding, limited staffing, and weak judicial collaboration. Nandang cautioned that without stronger institutional support, the long-term effectiveness and sustainability of these non-custodial measures established under the NCoS Act of 2019 may be at risk.
More still, the Nigerian Correctional Service reported that 28,149 inmates were released in 2024 after fines and compensations were paid. Deputy Controller-General Ibrahim Idris made this announcement while emphasising the positive impact of charitable contributions in reducing overcrowding in correctional facilities. He encouraged individuals to follow the minister’s example in assisting inmates, who received repatriation funds upon release. The Deputy Controller stated that a lower inmate population enhances rehabilitation opportunities and that imprisonment serves as a punishment rather than a means of punishment itself.
