Over 59,000 inmates already captured in ongoing NIN registration – NCoS
By Ukpono Ukpong
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has disclosed that over 59,000 inmates have so far been successfully registered in the ongoing National Identity Number (NIN) enrolment exercise, contrary to media reports suggesting the process has not commenced in custodial centres across the country.
In a statement signed by the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Umar Abubakar, the NCoS described the media report as “misleading, inaccurate, and does not reflect the current state of affairs within our custodial facilities.”
Abubakar stated that the NIN registration of inmates is not only ongoing, but has recorded substantial progress across the country through the collaborative efforts of the NCoS and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
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“The attention of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has been drawn to a recent publication by a section of the media alleging that the National Identity Number (NIN) registration exercise is yet to commence in all custodial centres across the country. This report is misleading, inaccurate, and does not reflect the current state of affairs within our custodial facilities.
“The Service wishes to categorically state that the NIN registration of inmates in our custodial centres is not only ongoing but has recorded significant progress. A majority of inmates across various custodial centres nationwide have already been successfully enrolled into the National Identity Database through the collaborative efforts of the Service and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC),” he said.
Providing specific figures, the NCoS revealed that out of a total inmate population of 80,879 as of June 7, 2025, a total of 59,786 inmates, approximately 74 percent, have been captured in the NIMC database.
Abubakar further clarified that the registration of the remaining inmates is in progress and that all necessary mechanisms have been deployed to ensure the process is completed smoothly and efficiently.
“The registration of the remaining inmates is actively in progress, and mechanisms have been put in place to ensure its seamless completion.” he said
The NCoS insisted that the claim that NIN registration is yet to begin in prisons is “factually incorrect and fails to acknowledge the substantial work already done.”
Reiterating its commitment to digital inclusion and inmate rehabilitation, the Service emphasized that full integration into national data systems such as the NIN is part of broader correctional reforms aimed at reintegration.
According to the statement, “The Service remains committed to the full integration of inmates into national data systems, including the NIN, as part of broader efforts to promote rehabilitation, reintegration, and the digital inclusion of all persons in custody.”
The NCoS also advised journalists to verify facts with relevant authorities before publishing reports, warning that misinformation could mislead the public and undermine institutional progress.
“The Service therefore urges members of the media to verify information with relevant authorities before publication, in order to avoid spreading misinformation that may mislead the public and undermine ongoing institutional efforts,” the statement reads.
