The Federal Government has issued a firm warning to all officers and men of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) against any form of improper association with inmates, emphasizing that such conduct poses a serious threat to national security and the integrity of the correctional system.
Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, delivered the caution on Tuesday in Abuja during the decoration ceremony of 16,582 newly promoted personnel — the largest promotion exercise in the history of the NCoS.
Addressing the assembled officers, Nwakuche stressed that the Service maintains a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct, including trafficking, compromise, or any unwholesome association with inmates. “Such actions erode public trust, endanger institutional security, and sabotage the reform efforts of the Nigerian Correctional Service. We will not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law and relevant service regulations against any officer or staff found to be involved, regardless of rank or position,” he warned.
The Controller General described the event as a moment to recognize dedication, professionalism, sacrifice, and the steady growth of the Service. He also praised President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support of the ongoing reform in the correctional system, alongside the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, whose strategic leadership and institutional support made the massive promotion exercise possible.
The promotion breakdown revealed that 11,417 senior officers and 4,253 junior personnel were elevated to higher ranks. Among them, 128 junior officers advanced to Assistant Superintendent of Corrections after completing the required academic qualifications, 89 Correctional Assistants moved up to the Inspectorate cadre, and 689 Chief Correctional Assistants were promoted to Inspectors following successful completion of prescribed courses. Additionally, six officers received special recognition promotions for gallantry and exceptional performance.
Congratulating the newly promoted officers, Nwakuche reminded them that elevation comes with increased expectations. “Promotion brings not only honour and fulfilment, but increased responsibility. Higher ranks demand higher standards of discipline, integrity, leadership, and professionalism. Promotion is not an end in itself; it is a renewed call to service,” he stated.
For officers who were not promoted during this exercise, he encouraged patience and perseverance, noting that “promotion is a process, and timing differs, but discipline, competence, and consistency never go unnoticed.”
This landmark promotion not only underscores the government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s correctional institutions but also highlights the importance of discipline and accountability in safeguarding national security and public trust.