Gladness Gideon
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has announced that a total of 59,786 inmates have so far been registered in the ongoing National Identity Number (NIN) enrolment exercise across custodial centres nationwide.
The figure, according to a statement issued on Sunday by NCoS spokesperson Umar Abubakar, represents approximately 74 percent of Nigeria’s total inmate population of 80,879.
The exercise, being conducted in partnership with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), is part of efforts to integrate inmates into the national identity database and improve access to public services upon reintegration.
Reacting to recent media reports alleging that the process had not begun in any correctional facility, the NCoS described such claims as “false and misleading,” insisting that significant progress had already been made.
“The attention of the Nigerian Correctional Service has been drawn to a recent publication by a section of the media alleging that the National Identity Number registration exercise is yet to commence in all custodial centres across the country.
This report is misleading, inaccurate, and does not reflect the current state of affairs within our custodial facilities,” the statement read.
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The Service noted that the enrolment of inmates was not only underway but already yielding tangible results, with thousands successfully captured into the NIMC platform.
“Available data show that as of June 7, 2025, out of the total of 80,879 inmates’ population, 59,786 inmates, approximately 74 percent, have been captured into the NIMC platform.
The registration of the remaining inmates is actively in progress, and mechanisms have been put in place to ensure its seamless completion,” it added.
The NCoS reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability, noting that the exercise aligns with broader national objectives aimed at strengthening identity management and supporting national security architecture.