ABUJA, FCT – June 3, 2025 – The Nigerian Federal Government has issued a crucial directive for an immediate and comprehensive security assessment of all correctional centres nationwide. The order comes as the nation prepares for the upcoming Sallah celebrations and grapples with the onset of heavy rains, both factors presenting potential security vulnerabilities.

The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, announced this critical development during an emergency virtual meeting held today with key senior officials. Participants included Zonal Coordinators, Training College Commandants, and State Controllers, all tasked with bolstering the security of correctional facilities across the country.

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According to Abubakar Umar, Spokesman for the Nigerian Correctional Service (DCC), the primary objective of the urgent meeting was to implement proactive measures aimed at preventing any security breaches, particularly considering the increased risks posed by the prevailing heavy rainfall.

Addressing the assembled officers, Controller General Nwakuche issued a stern warning, emphasizing that securing the facilities is paramount and that any lapses would result in direct accountability. “This is not just about concrete walls and iron bars; it’s about trust, duty, and the safety of every Nigerian. The time for complacency is over,” he asserted.

During the interactive session, the Controller General engaged with feedback from his officers, commending commendable efforts and providing critical advice where necessary. He also encouraged the brainstorming of innovative ideas for continuous improvement in correctional security.

Key decisions emerging from the meeting include an immediate audit of all correctional centres to pinpoint potential weak spots, the intensification of security measures at high-risk facilities, and the prompt removal of any “weak links” within the custodial chain.

Officers were further instructed to escalate surveillance activities and were reminded of the zero-tolerance policy for negligence. The Controller General stressed that any staff member found culpable of carelessness, collusion, or dereliction of duty would face severe consequences.

Nwakuche made it unequivocally clear that internal accountability would be rigorously enforced, with swift action against any personnel responsible for security lapses.

The meeting concluded with a powerful call for unity, discipline, and heightened alertness among all correctional staff. It also reinforced the commitment to fostering close collaboration with other security agencies and the broader public in ensuring national safety.