FG To Relocate Ikoyi Correctional Centre

By Felix Kuyinu

The Federal Government of Nigeria has disclosed it’s plans to relocate the Ikoyi Maximum Correctional Centre as part of it’s modification processes.

The country’s Minister for Interior, Olubunmi Ojo, stated that the initiative is part of efforts to improve the conditions at the facility and also ensure improved rehabilitation for the inmates.

Ojo, on Friday, also noted that the measure will address the infrastructural challenges hindering the effectiveness of the correctional system.

“The Ikoyi facility was established in the 19th century and is outdated,” stated the minister.

“We cannot continue to work with such outdated infrastructure. The President has graciously approved for us to start the process of relocatingg the centre.

“We have to solve these problems one by one, and I want to assure you that the process of relocating the correctional centre has already started.”

When quized on the ongoing efforts to improve the welfare of correctional officers, Ojo said:“We are making progress. We are not yet where we need to be, but we are certainly not where we were.

“In the past two years, more than 50,000 paramilitary officers have been promoted. For the first time in history, the promotion system within the service had undergone a complete overhaul, with officers now experiencing timely career progression.

“We are building a system where the paramilitary will be at the centre of internal security in Nigeria.

“This is a function of capacity, and capacity is a function of knowledge acquisition.

“The professionalizing at correctional services remains important. The recruitment practices should be rigorous and in line with international standards.

“We are encouraging our officers and ensuring that they are properly trained. But beyond that, we must ensure that the correctional system is not just about punishment but also about rehabilitation and transformation.”