Nigerian Government Reports Decrease in Recidivism Rates

The Nigerian government announced a notable decline in the number of ex-convicts returning to prison, with recidivism rates decreasing from 11,616 in 2023 to 1,382 by 2025. This improvement is attributed to ongoing rehabilitation reform programs, as disclosed by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during a presentation of an investigative report by the Nigerian Correctional Service.

The report indicates that the recidivism rate dropped from 3,156 in 2024 to 1,382 in 2025, suggesting that the reforms are yielding positive results. However, Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated that the government will not declare success until the recidivism rate reaches zero.

As of May 2026, there were 15,632 inmates admitted to custody, with 14,190 released under various legal conditions during the same period. The Minister stressed the importance of continued reform and stronger implementation of recommendations from the investigative report, which will be actively monitored by a committee.