🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Nigerian Correctional Service reports significant drop in repeat offenders
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
The Federal Government announced a substantial decrease in repeat offenders within the Nigerian Correctional Service, from 11,616 in 2023 to 1,382 in 2025. Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, attributed this reduction to ongoing rehabilitation and reformation programs during the presentation of an investigative report on the NCoS. He stated that while progress is evident, the government aims for zero recidivism before declaring full success. The Minister also noted that 15,632 inmates were admitted and 14,190 released in May 2026. He emphasized the need for continued reforms and aggressive implementation of the investigative report's recommendations, including establishing a monitoring and evaluation committee. Dr. Tunji-Ojo also called for collaboration with state governments to relocate correctional facilities, many of which are no longer suitable due to urban expansion. Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, mentioned that the investigative panel visited 86 custodial centers across 23 states.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
A record 10 African nations will participate in the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, held from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Morocco, a 2022 semi-finalist, leads the African challenge, while Cape Verde makes its debut and DR Congo returns for the first time since 1974. BBC Sport Africa highlighted seven players expected to make significant contributions. Antoine Semenyo, a 26-year-old forward who joined Manchester City mid-season, will lead Ghana's attack after scoring 17 Premier League goals. Yan Diomande, a 19-year-old RB Leipzig attacker, was the Bundesliga's Rookie of the Season with 12 goals and eight assists for Ivory Coast. South Africa's captain and goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, 34, brings experience and penalty-saving prowess, fresh from winning the African Champions League. Roberto "Pico" Lopes, a 33-year-old Shamrock Rovers centre-back, was instrumental in Cape Verde's historic qualification. Brahim Diaz, a 26-year-old Real Madrid playmaker, seeks redemption with Morocco after a penalty miss in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations final. Ismaila Sarr, a 28-year-old Crystal Palace forward, is in career-best form, having scored 21 goals this season, including nine in the UEFA Conference League for Senegal. Omar Marmoush, a 27-year-old Manchester City forward, remains a central figure for Egypt, contributing to City's League Cup and FA Cup successes. The 2026 World Cup provides a platform for African football to display its talent.
Must ReadMusa Aliyu, Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission ICPC, stated that a lack of integrity and ethical standards is central to Nigeria's governance and developmental issues. He made these remarks at the International Conference on Anti-Corruption, Transparency and Integrity in Governance, organized by the Anti-Corruption Academy of Nigeria ACAN in Keffi, Nasarawa State. Aliyu emphasized the urgent need for reinforced ethical compliance across all sectors to achieve progress, noting that the fight against corruption requires collective involvement from public institutions, the private sector, civil society organizations, professional bodies, faith-based organizations, the media, academia, and citizens. He called for stronger collaboration and sustained commitment to rebuild public trust and strengthen governance systems. Professor Sheriff Ibrahim, Provost of ACAN, described corruption as a major obstacle to Nigeria's socio-economic development. Abdulrasheed Bawa, former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, advocated for a more determined and action-driven approach to anti-corruption efforts.
The Oyo State House of Assembly has rejected suggestions for the state government to negotiate with bandits who abducted teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, 2026. Following a motion by Johnson Ogundele, representing Oriire State Constituency, the Assembly called for intensified rescue operations. The motion highlighted increasing bandit activities in Oriire since early 2026, including an attack on Ahoro-Esienle, Oyo, and Yawota communities where a teacher, a student, and an okada rider were killed, and dozens abducted. Lawmakers commended Governor Seyi Makinde's response and urged for increased support for security agencies, a permanent military base, and security audits for schools near forests. The Assembly also called for the installation of solar-powered security lights, perimeter fencing, and CCTV cameras in vulnerable schools, along with a comprehensive Safe School Emergency Response Protocol. Majority Leader Sanjo Adedoyin renewed calls for state police, citing challenges faced by conventional security agencies in difficult terrains. Other lawmakers discussed poor management of forest reserves, inadequate security presence, and the need for structural reforms in Nigeria’s security architecture. They also called for more personnel for the Amotekun Corps and better equipment. Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, firmly dismissed negotiation calls, warning that it could embolden criminals and stressed the importance of sustained sec
Must ReadNigeria, represented by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, joined other African leaders, including the President of Ghana, at the London Stock Exchange to promote stronger Africa-United Kingdom investment relations. The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to attracting foreign investment and deepening economic ties with global financial institutions. The market opening ceremony brought together heads of government, finance ministers, policymakers, global investors, chief executives, and representatives of major financial institutions from Africa, Europe, and other parts of the world. This participation highlighted efforts to position Africa as an attractive destination for investment and long-term economic partnerships, showcasing its economic potential and ongoing reforms. During engagements, Mr. Oyedele reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to implementing economic reforms to promote stability, support private-sector growth, and improve investor confidence. He emphasized that stronger collaboration between African economies and international financial institutions is essential for unlocking investment opportunities, expanding infrastructure, and accelerating inclusive growth across the continent. Following the opening, African leaders and investors participated in a private executive breakfast discussion, "Navigating a World in Transition," which examined global economic changes, geopolitical realities, and emerging trends in