The Federal Government has partnered with local and international organisations to tackle violent extremism within Nigeria’s correctional facilities.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening internal security and enhancing ongoing deradicalisation programmes. It also seeks to support reforms in the correctional system and prevent custodial centres from being used as recruitment or coordination hubs by extremist groups.
The Coordinator of the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said correctional facilities play a critical role in national security but can become breeding grounds for radicalisation if not effectively managed. He emphasised that improved capacity building, intelligence sharing, and community engagement are key to transforming these centres into spaces for rehabilitation, reform, and reintegration.
The programme is being implemented in collaboration with international partners, drawing on global experience in managing and rehabilitating individuals linked to terrorism and violent extremism.
The Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Ndidi, noted that the agency has continued to adapt to evolving security threats, particularly in handling inmates associated with extremist activities. He added that a deradicalisation programme introduced in 2016 remains central to the service’s rehabilitation efforts.
Authorities say the strengthened collaboration is expected to improve the management of high-risk inmates while promoting long-term reintegration and reducing the risk of reoffending.
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