The Nigerian Correctional Service is facing serious challenges in providing adequate meals for inmates due to the current economic hardships. This was revealed by Ibrahim Yau, the Deputy Comptroller of Corrections, at the Suleja custodial facility in Niger State.

During a visit by the Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, Yau highlighted that the daily feeding allowance for inmates is too low to provide proper meals. He pointed out that the Suleja facility, originally built to hold 250 inmates, now houses 405, which has significantly strained resources.

Yau expressed appreciation for the assistance provided by NGOs, acknowledging that the Nigerian government cannot handle the welfare needs of inmates alone. These organizations have been instrumental in improving living conditions within custodial centres.

The visit by the Legal Aid Council was part of their efforts to improve inmates’ conditions and provide free legal services. However, the growing number of inmates and limited resources emphasize the need for urgent intervention to address overcrowding and poor funding in Nigerian correctional facilities.