The Federal Government has restated its unwavering commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of all persons in prison custody, in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution and international standards.
The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made this known at an event marking the 2025 Nelson Mandela International Day, co-organised by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the UN Information Centre (UNIC). He was represented by Mr. Nasiru Usman, Director of Joint Services at the Ministry.
Tunji-Ojo underscored the importance of the event, describing it as a reflection of Mandela’s enduring legacy of peace, justice, dignity, and humanity — values that should guide the treatment of incarcerated individuals.
“The Nelson Mandela Rules, which serve as the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners, remain central to our ongoing correctional reforms,” he stated.
He also highlighted the newly released prison audit report, describing it as a “critical milestone and evidence-based assessment” that will shape effective correctional policies and improve conditions in custodial centres.
Tunji-Ojo praised UNODC for its continuous support to Nigeria’s correctional system through officer training, promotion of non-custodial measures, and improved access to legal aid.
Also speaking at the event, Acting UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, called for the protection of the dignity, fairness, and humanity of prisoners, noting that such values are essential in every justice system.
She described the 2025 commemoration as particularly significant for Nigeria, with a prison population exceeding 81,000 — about two-thirds of whom are awaiting trial.
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