The Federal Government of Nigeria has approved a 50% increase in the feeding allowance for inmates in correctional facilities across the country. This decision comes as part of a broader effort to improve the welfare and living conditions of inmates in the nation’s prisons.
The approval was announced by the Minister of Interior, who highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring the humane treatment of prisoners and aligning with international standards for the management of correctional facilities. The increase is expected to take immediate effect, with funds allocated to all correctional centers nationwide.
According to the Minister, the decision was made after a series of consultations with relevant stakeholders, including the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), civil society organizations, and human rights groups. The government recognized the need to address the challenges of overcrowding, inadequate nutrition, and poor living conditions that have plagued the correctional system for years.
“This increment is a crucial step towards ensuring that the basic needs of inmates are met. It reflects our commitment to upholding human rights and providing a more dignified environment within our correctional facilities,” the Minister stated.
The increase in feeding allowance is expected to help improve the quality and quantity of meals provided to inmates. Prior to this development, there were widespread reports of malnutrition and poor health conditions among prisoners due to inadequate funding and substandard food supply.
Reacting to the announcement, the Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service expressed gratitude to the government for the intervention and assured that the funds would be utilized effectively. He emphasized that the increase would not only enhance inmate welfare but also contribute to the overall reform of the correctional system.
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Human rights advocates have lauded the decision, stating that it is a positive move towards reforming Nigeria’s correctional facilities. They, however, urge the government to continue with broader reforms, including decongestion of prisons, provision of adequate healthcare, and enhancement of rehabilitation programs.
The approved increase also aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to reform the criminal justice system, ensuring that correctional facilities not only serve as centers for punishment but also for rehabilitation and reformation.
As the new feeding allowance is implemented, correctional facility administrators across the country are expected to ensure transparency and accountability in the disbursement and use of these funds, to achieve the desired impact on inmate welfare.
