20/02/2026
Here are 5 important facts:
1️⃣ It’s No Longer Called “Prison”
Nigeria officially changed from “Nigerian Prisons Service” to the Nigerian Correctional Service in 2019.
The reason?
The focus shifted from punishment alone to correction, rehabilitation, and reintegration.
2️⃣ Not Everyone There Is Convicted
Many inmates are Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs) — meaning they are still going through court processes and have not been convicted.
This is an important distinction many people don’t know.
3️⃣ Rehabilitation Programs Exist
Correctional centres offer:
Vocational training (carpentry, tailoring, welding, etc.)
Educational programs
Religious and counseling services
The goal is to prepare inmates for life after release.
4️⃣ Reintegration Is Part of the System
Modern correctional philosophy includes helping former inmates return to society productively.
Without reintegration support, the chances of reoffending increase.
5️⃣ The System Is Governed By Law
Operations are guided by the Nigerian Correctional Service Act (2019), which outlines:
Inmate rights
Custodial procedures
Non-custodial measures
Correctional centres operate within legal frameworks — not randomly.
Understanding how the correctional system works helps us have informed conversations about justice, reform, and second chances.
Reform. Rebuild. Rise.
