By Ibironke Ariyo
The new Controller, Nigeria Correctional Service, (NCoS), FCT Command, Olatubosun Ajibogun, has assured the command’s personnel of capacity building, to enable the effective and efficient discharge of their duties.
Ajibogun made this pledge on Monday in Abuja during his quarterly inspection of custodial centers and correctional facilities within the command. He emphasized that the tour was intended to familiarize himself with the staff and to promote operational excellence across all correctional institutions under his jurisdiction.
“This initiative aligns with international best practices and reflects the core policy objectives of the NCoS, under the leadership of the Acting Controller-General, Sylvester Nwakuche,” he stated.
The controller praised the officers for maintaining peace, order, and high standards of hygiene and sanitation within the custodial centers. He also reiterated his dedication to fostering comprehensive capacity-building programs for both staff and inmates, which will include regular training, educational opportunities, and vocational skill acquisition initiatives.
“These efforts will be carried out in collaboration with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and other key stakeholders,” Ajibogun added.
He urged superintendents overseeing various facilities to ensure that every inmate participates in either a vocational or educational program. “This will equip them with valuable skills, making them productive and employable after their release. I also assure them of receiving certifications upon completing these programs,” he said.
Ajibogun warned officers against engaging in misconduct such as absenteeism, trafficking, negligence, or any form of indiscipline. “Anyone found guilty of such actions will face strict penalties in accordance with existing regulations,” he cautioned.
The controller also promised to maintain an open-door policy and work closely with all stakeholders to achieve the service’s statutory goals. During his visit, Ajibogun met with traditional leaders in communities hosting correctional facilities, thanking them for their support and cooperation.
He also expressed gratitude to the heads of sister security agencies in these communities for ensuring the safety and security of the custodial centers and their surroundings. Ajibogun called for continued collaboration and partnership to maintain robust security measures in and around the correctional facilities.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the facilities inspected by the controller included the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Kuje, MSCC Suleja, and the Custodial Model Farm Centre in Dukpa. Additionally, he visited the 3,000-capacity Maximum Security Custodial Centre in Karshi, the Soap Cottage Industry in Kuje, the Canine Unit, and the Poultry Farm in Kuje.
