The Federal Government has approved a 50 per cent increase in the feeding allowance for inmates across various correctional centres in Nigeria, effective from August 2024. This measure aims to address rising food costs and improve inmates’ welfare.
The spokesperson for the Nigeria Correctional Service, Abubakar Umar, confirmed the increase in an interview with newsmen on Thursday.
He described it as the “first phase” of a broader review intended to enhance living conditions for inmates.
“The inmate feeding allowance has been increased by 50 per cent, effective from August 2024. This is just the first phase,” Umar said.
He added that further reviews would follow, particularly due to the soaring cost of food.
“The FG will also consider additional reviews. This is just the first phase. Normally, there is a period when inmate feeding allowances are reviewed. Following a presentation during the budget process, the FG deemed it necessary to adjust the allowance due to the rising cost of food. Further adjustments are expected,” Umar explained.
Nigeria currently has 84,575 inmates, according to the latest figures from the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).
