By Ibironke Ariyo
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) says it has spent over N1.047b on the welfare of 1,024 serving, retired and deceased personnel of the service in 2024.
Acting Controller General of NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, said this on Wednesday at a ceremony to mark the 19th anniversary of the Correctional Welfare Insurance Scheme (CWIS) in Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the workshop is “Protecting those who protect: Unleashing the power of health insurance for prison guards.”
Nwakuche said the issue was timely and significant, but added that it underscored the critical role of social security in protecting the welfare of workers.
He said these were those who had contributed tremendously to the country’s security and justice sectors through their dedication and sacrifice.
He also said the annual meeting provided a valuable opportunity for staff to reflect on the implementation of the programme, assess its impact and develop new strategies to improve its effectiveness in light of current economic realities.
“Over the years, CWIS has remained a vital pillar of support for the NCOs and has continuously evolved to provide much-needed financial support to active, retired and deceased soldiers and their families.
“It is worthy of note that between January and December 2024, CWIS successfully disbursed N188,734,500 in death benefits to the families of 138 deceased staff.
“Also, 886 medical and pension claims totalling N858,951,523 were settled.
“A total of 1,024 beneficiaries received a total amount of N1,047,686,023 during the period under review. These figures reflect our unwavering commitment to the welfare of our staff and their families,” he said.
Nwakuche said the NCoS was entrusted with the task of ensuring the safe and humane custody of persons detained by courts of competent jurisdiction.
He said the task was demanding and high-risk and required untiring commitment and resilience from the officers and men.
“On this premise, the focus of my policy is based on staff welfare and the recognition that a highly motivated workforce is critical to the successful implementation of our laws, policies and institutional reforms.
“I can assure you that the Correctional Welfare Insurance Plan will continue to grow stronger and better, driven by our shared commitment to its sustainability and improvement.
“The NCoS administration remains committed to implementing comprehensive reforms that will improve the efficiency and reliability of this plan.
“We will also ensure that the service continues to provide meaningful support to all taxpayers,” he said.
The NCO General Advocate lauded the resilience and sacrifice of all NCO personnel whose unwavering commitment he said maintained the integrity of the service.
Nwakuche also urged all NCoS personnel to fully cooperate with the CWIS team, recognizing that the success of the plan is in their best interest.
In her welcoming address, the Secretary of the CWIS, Assistant Comptroller of Corrections (ACC), Mrs… Hannatu Mamman said the annual workshop remains a milestone in the annals of the NCoS.
Mamman said he initiated reforms that broadened the framework for prison guards’ welfare.
“Basically, this workshop is designed to create awareness on the importance of social security for prison staff.
“Furthermore, identify key challenges and areas for improvement and promote functional collaboration among stakeholders.
“We pledge our continued loyalty and commitment to exceptional performance. “We will continue to be guided by the principles of passion for service, discipline, innovation and unwavering devotion,” he said.
Highlights of the event included awards to former Comptroller Generals, CWIS Board Members, officers and military personnel who have demonstrated dedication and hard work, as well as group photos, among others.
