Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has reaffirmed the vital role of traditional institutions in advancing the reformation, rehabilitation and successful reintegration of offenders into society, describing community support as indispensable to sustainable corrections. This was contained in a statement signed by JN Osuji, Chief Superintendent of Corrections, Service Public Relations Officer, Nigerian Correctional Service.
The Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni, pcc, made this known on Wednesday while receiving two eminent traditional rulers on separate courtesy visits to the Service National Headquarters in Abuja.
The royal visitors were His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr. Haruna Tanko Jibrin, MFR, MCC, the Gomo of Kuje, and His Royal Highness, Antiokkarji Luka Kogi Yabuwat, Agwan Kajju II and Paramount Ruler of the Kajju Traditional Council, Kajju Chiefdom.
During the visit, the Gomo of Kuje commended the Controller-General for his leadership and commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Correctional Service. He pledged the continued support of the Kuje traditional institution and underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between host communities and custodial facilities in promoting peace, security and community development.
In his remarks, the Agwan Kajju II described his visit as a homecoming, recalling his years of service as a retired prison officer. Drawing from his experience within the correctional system, he emphasised that the responsibility of reforming offenders cannot rest on the Service alone.
He noted that traditional rulers occupy a unique position in fostering acceptance and social inclusion, urging communities to embrace reformed former inmates and support their reintegration rather than subject them to stigma and exclusion.
Responding, the Controller-General appreciated both royal fathers for their goodwill and unwavering support for the Service. He reaffirmed the NCoS commitment to strengthening partnerships with traditional institutions and other critical stakeholders in advancing the objectives of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019.
The CGC observed that effective corrections extend beyond custodial walls, stressing that the active involvement of families, communities, traditional leaders and other stakeholders remains essential to achieving lasting rehabilitation, reducing recidivism and building safer communities across the country.
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