By SpringNewsNG Media Limited | March 27, 2025

ABUJA – The Federal Government has raised alarm over the presence of approximately 26,000 childrenhttp://Federal Government has raised alarm over the presence of approximately 26,000 children in correctional facilities, calling it a clear violation of laws that mandate their placement in borstal institutions.

Speaking at a high-level inter-agency meeting in Abuja on Tuesday, Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, condemned the situation and called for immediate action to address institutional gaps. He described the current system as inadequate and emphasized the need for urgent legal and structural reforms to protect children’s rights.

Urgent Reforms and Government Action

Dr. Tunji-Ojo announced plans to establish a Nigerian Paramilitary Academy to train correctional officers in empathy and rehabilitation principles. He also highlighted the need for non-custodial measures for non-violent offenders to reduce overcrowding in prisons.

“The future is now. We must focus on action and results, not excuses. Correctional services are about rehabilitation, not condemnation,” he stated.

Collaboration and Accountability

The Minister stressed the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration and urged state governments to actively participate in juvenile justice reforms. He warned that agencies failing to uphold child protection laws would face strict consequences.

“The law is clear—children should not be in adult correctional centres. Violations will not be tolerated,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo asserted.

Shocking Statistics

According to the 2024 report on children deprived of liberty, an average of 26,000 children and young adults have been detained annually in Nigerian prisons over the past five years—accounting for over 30% of the total inmate population.

The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, echoed these concerns, stressing that these figures represent real lives in desperate need of intervention.

Dr. Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, vowing that by 2027, Nigeria would be discussing achievements, not unfulfilled promises.

“This administration is committed to building a justice system that future generations will be proud of,” he concluded.