President Tinubu approves relocation of 29 prisons nationwide

DDM News

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sanctioned the relocation of 29 prisons currently situated in urban areas across the country.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that the move is part of an effort to enhance security, reduce congestion, and modernize correctional facilities.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this on Friday during the commissioning of newly acquired operational vehicles for the Nigerian Correctional Service.

He noted that the decision aligns with the administration’s commitment to improving the country’s justice and security systems.

Background of the relocation plan

Nigeria’s correctional system has faced numerous challenges, including overcrowding, outdated infrastructure, and security threats.

Many prisons are located in densely populated areas, making them vulnerable to security breaches and escape attempts.

The affected 29 prisons, which are among the oldest in the country, were originally established during colonial times.

During that period, urbanization was minimal, and the facilities were strategically placed to serve the colonial government.

Over the years, cities have expanded around these facilities, leading to severe congestion and heightened security risks.

Some of the affected prisons include Kirikiri Maximum and Medium Security Prisons in Lagos and Port Harcourt Prison in Rivers State.

Enugu Prison and Kano Central Prison are also among those selected for relocation.

These facilities have long been criticized for their dilapidated state and inability to accommodate the increasing number of inmates.

The relocation plan aims to decongest these facilities while constructing modern correctional centers in more suitable locations.

Rationale for the relocation

Minister Tunji-Ojo emphasized that the decision to move the 29 prisons is based on the need for global best practices.

Urban prisons have become difficult to manage due to their proximity to residential and commercial areas.

“The relocation of these correctional facilities is necessary to enhance national security and improve the welfare of inmates,” he stated.

He added that the new facilities will provide better rehabilitation services and reduce security concerns.

Security experts have long advocated for this move, citing previous jailbreaks and attacks on prisons in urban areas.

The 2021 attack on Kuje Prison in Abuja highlighted the vulnerabilities of correctional centers in crowded locations.

New facilities and modernization efforts

The relocation of these 29 prisons will involve the construction of new, state-of-the-art correctional facilities in less congested areas.

The new facilities will be equipped with advanced security systems and vocational training centers.

Improved living conditions for inmates are also a major focus of the project.

According to the Nigerian Correctional Service, the modernized prisons will feature improved surveillance technology and reinforced perimeters.

Enhanced rehabilitation programs aimed at reducing recidivism will also be incorporated.

The government has announced that part of the funding for this project will come from public-private partnerships.

Minister Tunji-Ojo assured Nigerians that the new facilities will not only be more secure but also focus on skill acquisition programs.

These programs will help inmates reintegrate into society upon release.

Impact on the justice system

The relocation of these correctional facilities is expected to bring significant changes to Nigeria’s criminal justice system.

One major concern of human rights organizations has been the inhumane conditions in some of these urban prisons.

Overcrowding has led to poor hygiene, inadequate healthcare, and increased cases of violence among inmates.

By transferring these facilities to less populated areas, the government aims to provide a more humane environment for inmates.

The move is also expected to ease the burden on prison staff, enabling them to operate more effectively.

Legal experts have praised the initiative, stating that it could lead to better prison management and reduce arbitrary detentions.

A more efficient correctional system will also help in fast-tracking judicial processes.

This ensures that awaiting-trial inmates do not spend unnecessary years in custody.

Challenges and concerns

While the decision to relocate these 29 prisons has been widely welcomed, there are concerns about its implementation.

Some experts argue that transferring correctional facilities to rural areas may create logistical challenges.

Legal representatives and families of inmates may struggle to visit their loved ones.

Additionally, stakeholders have called for transparency in the execution of this project.

They demand proper utilization of funds allocated for construction.

There are also calls for proper training of correctional officers to manage the new facilities effectively.

The Nigerian government has assured the public that the relocation process will be carefully planned to address these concerns.

Minister Tunji-Ojo stated that community engagement will be prioritized in selecting new prison locations.

This will ensure that the sites are accessible and meet international correctional standards.

Conclusion

President Tinubu’s approval of the relocation of 29 prisons marks a significant step toward reforming Nigeria’s correctional system.

By moving these facilities out of congested urban centers, the government aims to enhance security and modernize prison conditions.

While challenges remain, this initiative represents a major shift toward a more effective and humane approach to corrections in Nigeria.

The success of this project will depend on proper implementation, adequate funding, and continued oversight.

Ensuring that the relocated facilities serve their intended purpose remains a top priority for the government.

The reforms are expected to contribute to a safer and more efficient correctional system for all Nigerians.

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