The Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, has issued a stern warning to officers of the service, urging them to avoid actions that could tarnish the agency's reputation. He specifically highlighted contraband trafficking and compromise with inmates as unacceptable acts of indiscipline.
Landmark Promotions and a Call for Higher Standards
Nwakuche delivered this strong message during the decoration ceremony for 16,582 newly promoted officers held on Tuesday in Abuja. He commended President Bola Tinubu for authorizing what he termed a landmark achievement—the highest number of promotions in the history of the NCoS.
The CG stated that the best way for officers to reciprocate this presidential gesture is by demonstrating higher standards of discipline, integrity, leadership, and professionalism. He emphasized that promotion is not an end in itself but a renewed call to service focused on humane custody, effective rehabilitation, and public safety.
Zero Tolerance for Indiscipline and Trafficking
Nwakuche's warning was unequivocal. This administration has zero tolerance for acts of indiscipline, particularly trafficking, compromise, or any form of unwholesome association with inmates, he declared. He explained that such misconduct erodes public trust, endangers institutional security, and sabotages the reform agenda of the NCoS.
He made it clear that the service would not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law and relevant regulations against any officer found involved, regardless of their rank or position. To whom much is given, much is expected, he reminded the gathered officers.
Breakdown of the 16,582 Promotions
The Controller General provided a detailed breakdown of the promotions, which included both senior and junior cadres:
- 11,417 officers were promoted within the senior cadre.
- 4,253 junior officers were elevated to their next ranks.
- 128 junior officers were upgraded to Assistant Superintendent of Corrections (ASC) after acquiring relevant academic qualifications.
- 89 correctional assistants moved to the inspectorate cadre upon obtaining diplomas and NCE qualifications.
- 689 chief correctional assistants were converted to inspectors of corrections after passing a prescribed conversion course.
Special Recognition for Gallantry
In a positive highlight, the service commended six officers who received a special promotion to the rank of Inspector of Corrections. This recognition was for acts of gallantry and exceptional performance. Nwakuche told these officers that their actions exemplify courage, professionalism, and devotion to duty, reflecting the finest traditions of the NCoS.
The ceremony, therefore, served a dual purpose: celebrating merit and achievement while drawing a firm line against corruption and security breaches within the correctional facilities.
