The new feeding allowance suggests a response to growing public scrutiny regarding the conditions within Nigerian correctional facilities. Several reports have highlighted alarming instances of inadequate nutrition, overcrowding, and related health crises among inmates.
For instance, a viral video from the Afokang Custodial Centre showcased poorly prepared meals, igniting public outrage and prompting investigations into the state of inmate welfare.
Moreover, tragic incidents such as the deaths of 12 inmates linked to malnutrition at the Keffi Medium Security Custodial Centre underscore the urgent need for reform.
Despite this increase, it is crucial to recognise that N1,125 per day still falls short of what is necessary for a decent meal because published surveys indicate that an average Nigerian requires no less than N1,000 per meal for adequate nutrition. Therefore, while this increase may be seen as a step forward, it still falls short of providing inmates with adequate nutrition. This discrepancy raises questions about the government’s commitment to genuinely improving inmate welfare and suggests that further adjustments are necessary.
First, it is important to recognise that the challenges facing the facilities extend well beyond inadequate feeding as overcrowding remains a significant issue, with over 90 per cent of inmates classified as awaiting trial. This situation not only exacerbates health risks and strains resources within facilities. It also highlights systemic failures within the justice system.
Furthermore, the lack of timely trials and effective police investigations contributes to this backlog, resulting in a punitive environment rather than one focused on rehabilitation; again, highlighting systemic failures within the justice system.
Moreover, many inmates suffer from poor mental and physical health due to neglect and substandard living conditions. The prevalence of diseases in overcrowded environments can lead to outbreaks that affect not only inmates but also prison staff and the surrounding communities. Addressing these health concerns requires a multifaceted approach that includes improving sanitation, healthcare access and nutritional standards.
An increased feeding allowance should be part of a broader strategy aimed at rehabilitating inmates and reintegrating them into society. One innovative approach could involve deploying inmates for social and community work. This model has been successfully implemented in various countries where inmates participate in community service projects or contribute to environment preservation efforts. To inspire meaningful reform in Nigeria’s correctional system, the government can look to successful models from other nations.
For example, South Africa has implemented vocational training programmes for inmates, enabling them to acquire skills that facilitate reintegration into society. These programmes focus on trades such as carpentry and tailoring, equipping inmates with practical skills that enhance their employability upon release.
Kenya too has adopted community service programmes where non-violent offenders contribute to local development projects instead of serving time in overcrowded prisons. This approach not only alleviates prison congestion but also fosters a sense of responsibility among inmates.
Furthermore, Rwanda has made significant strides in reforming its correctional facilities by prioritising rehabilitation over punishment as inmates are engaged in agricultural projects that provide food for the prison and generate income, thereby reducing reliance on government funding.
Also, in California, trained inmates have been engaged in fighting wildfires, providing them with valuable skills while benefiting society. Such programmes not only help alleviate labour shortages but also foster a sense of purpose among inmates. Allowing prisoners to contribute positively to their communities can begin to shift perceptions about incarceration from punishment to rehabilitation.
Additionally, engaging inmates in state-run farms or construction projects can generate revenue while providing them with practical skills that enhance their employability upon release. These initiatives could serve as a model for Nigeria’s correctional system and align with global best practices in inmate rehabilitation.
Therefore, reforming correctional systems requires innovative thinking and a commitment to human rights. Also, by learning from these models, Nigeria can develop tailored solutions that address its unique challenges. Thus, improved feeding should serve as an opportunity for the government, through the Ministry of Interior, Nigerian Correctional Service and other relevant agencies to commence reforms in the correctional centres. This requires a comprehensive approach that will emphasise improved welfare, rehabilitation and community engagement of inmates of the correctional centres.
Beyond the welfare of inmates, the government, through the office of the Attorney General of the Federation and other relevant agencies, should prioritise accelerated and efficient prosecution of offenders. Justice delayed is justice denied; and the situation where suspects, while undergoing trial, are incarcerated for periods even longer than the prescribed prison sentence for their offence is unacceptable.
Government officials, civil society organisations and citizens should advocate comprehensive reforms that prioritise humane treatment and rehabilitation over mere punishment. Again, by investing in initiatives that allow inmates to contribute positively to their communities and acquire skills for future employment, Nigeria can pave the way for a more just and effective correctional system. The journey towards meaningful change is long but essential for fostering a society that values dignity and second chances for all its members.
