Our Mandate: Reformation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration
The Owerri Custodial Centre is a key facility operating under the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Imo State Command. Our primary mission is to contribute effectively to the public safety of Nigeria by providing secure custody for offenders, promoting their humane treatment, and developing their capacity for successful reintegration into society as law-abiding citizens.
We strictly adhere to the provisions of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act of 2019, which officially shifted the focus from punishment (Prisons Service) to correction (Correctional Service).
History and Transformation
Established in the era of the former Nigerian Prisons Service (NPS), the facility has long served the needs of the justice system in Imo State.
• Capacity and Overcrowding: The centre has historically struggled with congestion, often holding a population significantly higher than its original approved capacity (an issue common across Nigeria).
• The 2021 Attack: The facility was the site of a major security breach in April 2021, when gunmen attacked the centre, leading to a mass escape of inmates. This incident highlighted the need for continuous security upgrades and reinforcement.
• The New Era (Post-2019): Following the signing of the NCoS Act in 2019, the facility was officially rebranded as the Owerri Custodial Centre. This change signifies a renewed commitment to comprehensive inmate welfare, skill acquisition, and rehabilitation programs as the core mission.
Our Core Focus
Our operations are guided by international best practices, including the UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Nelson Mandela Rules).
1. Secure Custody: Maintaining a high-security environment to ensure public safety and prevent the escape of offenders.
2. Inmate Welfare: Providing essential services, including healthcare, feeding, clothing, and psychosocial support.
3. Rehabilitation: Offering educational programs (adult literacy, secondary school exams) and diverse vocational training to equip inmates with employable skills (carpentry, tailoring, welding, etc.).
4. Access to Justice: Facilitating access to legal aid and ensuring awaiting-trial inmates have their cases regularly reviewed.
Commitment to Stakeholders
The Owerri Custodial Centre works closely with:
• The Judiciary: To address the challenge of Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs).
• Civil Society Organizations (CSOs): To enhance inmate welfare and deliver essential psychosocial support.
• Families: To maintain crucial ties that support the rehabilitation and eventual reintegration of offenders.
We remain committed to transparency and serving the public interest under the authority of the Controller-General of Corrections and the Nigerian Correctional Service, National Headquarters.