Nigerian Inmates to Receive Boosted Daily Feeding Allowance of N1,150 in 2025 Budget

Nigerian Inmates to Receive Boosted Daily Feeding Allowance of N1,150 in 2025 Budget

In a significant move to improve inmate welfare, the Nigerian government has announced a 53% increase in the daily feeding allowance for prisoners, from N750 to N1,150, set to take effect in the 2025 budget. This development aims to address nutritional concerns and align with current economic realities, as confirmed by Stephen Abene, spokesperson for the Nasarawa State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).

The decision comes after mounting pressure from concerned Nigerians and institutions, who criticized the previous allowance as inadequate. A viral video from the Afokang Custodial Centre in Calabar exposed poorly prepared meals served to inmates, further highlighting the need for reform. Additionally, a report claimed that 12 inmates died in September 2024 at the Keffi Medium Security Custodial Centre in Nasarawa State due to illness linked to inadequate nutrition.

The NCoS Controller General, Haliru Nababa, had earlier revealed that prisoners received a daily food allowance of N750, sparking outrage when compared to the N800 daily allocation for each of the 900 dogs maintained by the service. This stark contrast drew widespread criticism and calls for reform. The Senate Committee on Interior had previously recommended a minimum daily feeding allowance of N1,000 per inmate.

According to Abene, "The government recently approved N1,150 for feeding per inmate from N750, which will be captured in the 2025 budget. This upward review is to meet up with the present economic reality." This increase demonstrates the government's commitment to enhancing inmate welfare and addressing nutritional challenges within the prison system.

The Nigerian Correctional Service has faced intense scrutiny over the years regarding the treatment and living conditions of inmates. This announcement marks a positive step towards ensuring the well-being of Nigerian inmates. Stakeholders and human rights advocates will closely watch the implementation of this policy.

The increased allowance is expected to improve the quality of meals provided to inmates, addressing concerns about malnutrition and related health issues. As the 2025 budget takes shape, Nigerians will be watching to see if this commitment translates into tangible improvements in the lives of those incarcerated.

With over 75,000 inmates across Nigeria's correctional facilities, this policy change has the potential to impact thousands of lives. As the country strives to reform its prison system, this development serves as a crucial step towards upholding human rights and dignity for all citizens, including those behind bars.