Nigeria Prison Reforms: 224 Correctional Officers sanctioned in disciplinary action
By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.
In a sweeping move to clean up the Nigerian Correctional Service, 224 officers have been subjected to disciplinary action as part of the Federal Government’s ongoing prison reforms.
The action follows an extensive investigation ordered by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, as part of a broader reform agenda targeting key institutions under the ministry — including the Correctional Service, Fire Service, Civil Defence, and Immigration.
An independent investigative panel, led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Magdalene Ajani — with renowned resource persons like Dr. Uju Agomoh serving as panel secretary, and consultant Dr. Iyke Ezeugo — was tasked earlier this year with evaluating the performance and professional conduct within the services.
Standard Times Nigeria, which covered the two-week investigative hearings earlier this year, can confirm the honest and transparent nature of the proceedings. The panel’s integrity was also commended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, in her closing remarks on Day 10 of the second investigative hearing held on Friday, March 14, 2025, at the Abuja Continental Hotels.
As a result of their findings, the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board concluded its review of 224 disciplinary cases involving correctional officers.
According to a statement issued Thursday, August 7, 2025, by the Nigerian Correctional Service’s Public Relations Officer, Umar Abubakar, the disciplinary measures were based on the recommendations of the Board’s Disciplinary and General Purpose Committee, following what was described as “extensive investigations and due process.”
The breakdown of sanctions includes the dismissal of 15 personnel for gross misconduct and breaches of service regulations. Additionally, 59 officers were demoted due to verified violations of professional standards, while 42 others received official warning letters.
The Minister of Interior has emphasized that the reforms are aimed at restoring professionalism, accountability, and global best practices within the correctional system.
