By our Reporter
The Ministry of Interior is seeking collaboration with the National Assembly in advancing far-reaching reforms across Nigeria’s correctional system and other critical sectors under the ministry’s oversight.
The interior Minister, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo disclosed this while speaking during a courtesy visit by the House of Representatives Committee on Reformatory Institutions, led by Chairman Hon. Chinedu N. Ogah.
He disclosed a reduction in the number of inmates across the country from over 86,000 to approximately 81,450 following a strategic review that addressed cases of prolonged incarceration for minor, bailable offences.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo described the Nigerian Correctional Service as the agency “closest to his heart,” citing its core mission of humanity and justice.
“Our government is working tirelessly to build stronger institutions and ensure that no citizen no matter how forgotten is left behind,” he said.
He stressed that the Tinubu administration is guided by a vision that measures the strength of governance not by its treatment of the powerful, but by how it uplifts the weakest.
“Correctional centres are home to some of the most vulnerable people in our society. It is our constitutional and moral duty to ensure they are treated with dignity,” the Minister added.
The Minister praised the legislature for its consistent support, calling the visit “deeply appreciated and symbolic.”
He commended the ongoing synergy between the executive and legislative arms of government, describing it as a model of cooperation that is driving real and lasting change.
“I believe in an open-door policy,” he said. “We are ready to work hand-in-hand with the National Assembly to ensure inclusive and impactful reforms across all interior sector institutions.”
In his remarks, Hon. Chinedu Ogah applauded the Minister and his team for their effective and innovative leadership in the security and correctional space.
He said the Committee’s visit aimed to commend the achievements that align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader agenda of repositioning Nigeria for sustainable growth and national transformation
