The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has announced that 74 percent of inmates across the country now have their National Identity Numbers (NIN) recorded in the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) database.
As of June 7, 2025, a total of 59,786 inmates out of 80,879 have been successfully registered in 256 custodial centres nationwide, according to Deputy Comptroller of Corrections and NCoS Public Relations Officer, Umar Abubakar. He emphasized that the registration process is still underway and efforts are being made to ensure all remaining inmates are included.
Abubakar dismissed recent reports claiming that NIN registration had not started in custodial centres, describing such claims as inaccurate and misleading. He highlighted the collaboration between NCoS and NIMC as key to the success of the registration drive.
“The integration of inmates into the national identity database is a critical step towards their rehabilitation and reintegration into society,” Abubakar said. “It also promotes digital inclusion for all persons in custody.”
The Correctional Service urged media outlets to verify information with relevant authorities before publication to avoid spreading misinformation that could undermine institutional efforts.
This initiative aligns with the goal of the government to ensure that all Nigerians, including those in correctional facilities, are accounted for in the national identity system, enhancing access to social services and legal recognition.
