Nigerian Correctional Service
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has formalized a strategic partnership with the Legend Golden Care Foundation (LGCF) to enhance gender-responsive interventions across custodial centres nationwide. The development followed a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Foundation to the Service.
Speaking on behalf of the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni, the Deputy Controller-General of Corrections in charge of the Health and Welfare Directorate, Mohammed Idris, described the visit as timely and commendable. He underscored the Service’s commitment to gender-specific treatment for female inmates, in line with international best practices and standards in correctional administration.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation and Programmes Manager of the Foundation, Patricia Akor, stated that the visit was aimed at interfacing with the NCoS Gender Unit to assess gender-specific challenges faced by inmates and identify priority areas for targeted interventions.
In his remarks during the interactive session, the Assistant Controller-General of Corrections in charge of Welfare, Timothy Dabit, highlighted the Service’s structured social welfare framework. He called for sustained collaboration with development partners, particularly in strengthening aftercare mechanisms and facilitating the effective reintegration of inmates, with a view to reducing recidivism.
Providing further insight, the NCoS Gender Adviser, Assistant Controller of Corrections (ACC) AF Sheyindemi, Ph.D., outlined the Unit’s mandate, ongoing programmes, emerging initiatives, and existing partnerships. She emphasized the need for increased support in key areas, including capacity building for gender desk officers, provision of pro bono legal and psychosocial services for female inmates, maternal and reproductive healthcare, hygiene interventions, and comprehensive aftercare and reintegration programmes.
The engagement reinforces the commitment of the Nigerian Correctional Service to advancing gender-sensitive correctional practices and strengthening partnerships that promote the rehabilitation, reintegration, and overall well-being of inmates.
