Controller-General flags-off farming season in correctional facilities
The Controller-General of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has flagged off the 2026 farming season in the Correctional facilities across the country. Nwakuche said the development marked
The Controller-General of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has flagged off the 2026 farming season in the Correctional facilities across the country.
Nwakuche said the development marked a paradigm shift in the perception of inmates, urging Nigerians to see persons in custody not merely as “awaiting trial,” but as individuals “awaiting opportunities to become productive assets to society.”
The Controller General, who inaugurated the 2026 Farming Season at the Dukpa Farm Centre in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, said the government cannot do everything alone and enjoined individuals and corporate bodies to assist the government.
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Speaking at the event, the Controller-General emphasised that the Service is strategically deploying agriculture as a key tool for inmate rehabilitation, vocational training, and national economic development.
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“We are making significant progress, but the government cannot do it alone. We call on private individuals and organisations to partner with us through Public-Private Partnerships to scale up our agricultural potential and impact,” he stated.
Nwakuche disclosed that the Service currently has access to over 12,263 hectares of arable land, supported by a ready workforce, while highlighting the need for increased investment, modern technology, and technical expertise to maximise productivity.
He noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s food security agenda, while simultaneously equipping inmates with practical, life-transforming skills that enhance their chances of successful reintegration into society.
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The Controller-General further underscored the role of modern agricultural technologies and improved farming techniques in boosting yields across NCoS farm centres nationwide.
During an interaction with inmates, he encouraged them to fully embrace the farming programme, describing it as a critical component of the Service’s broader rehabilitation framework.
Expressing optimism about the 2026 farming season, he noted that the early commencement of activities would translate into higher yields and improved outcomes for the Service.
Nwakuche also commended the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for their leadership and sustained commitment to reforming and repositioning the Nigerian Correctional Service.
According to the Service Public Relations Officer, Jane Osuji, the event featured the symbolic commencement of farming activities, guided tours of the Dukpa Farm Centre, and interactive sessions with inmates and members of the media, highlighting the Service’s evolving approach to corrections through empowerment, productivity, and sustainable reintegration.
