The number of unsentenced inmates in Nigerian correctional centres has risen by 12.9 percent over nine years, reaching 53,790 by the second quarter of 2025.
This is according to the latest Nigeria Correctional Service Statistics Report released by the National Bureau of Statistics.
The report shows that while the official capacity of the centres increased by 20.99 percent to 65,035 inmates, the total inmate population grew faster, rising 16.82 percent to 81,710. This indicates persistent overcrowding nationwide.
Lagos State recorded the most severe overcrowding, with an inmate population of 9,209 against a capacity of 4,167, resulting in an overcrowding ratio of 221 percent. Other states with high inmate populations include Ogun (4,939), Kano (4,667), and Enugu (3,536). Conversely, Kogi had the lowest inmate population at 530.
The data also reveals that remand or awaiting trial cases accounted for the highest number of admissions in 2024, with 94,614 inmates. In terms of offences, stealing topped the list with 55,722 admissions, followed by “other offences” (46,043) and armed robbery (10,090). Bribery and corruption recorded the least admissions at just 27.
