1,271 Nigerians Serving Non-Custodial Sentences Nationwide

According to the latest statistics released by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), there are currently 1,271 Nigerians serving non-custodial sentences across the country. This figure includes 1,137 males and 134 females.

The data indicates that community service is the predominant non-custodial measure, accounting for 1,038 offenders, with 992 males and 46 females. Additionally, there are 12 offenders on parole, comprising nine males and three females, and 34 individuals serving probation sentences, including 30 males and four females.

The statistics also reveal that 162 offenders are undergoing restorative justice programs, consisting of 84 males and 78 females. Overall, males represent 89% of the total non-custodial population, while females account for 11%.

The non-custodial service was introduced under the Nigerian Correctional Service Act of 2019 to reduce overcrowding in custodial centers and promote rehabilitation. The implementation of these measures began in the Federal Capital Territory and Lagos, with gradual expansion to other states.