The Controller General, Nigeria Correctional Service, Sylvester Ndidi-Nwakuche has described prisoner classification as a strategic measure to enhance internal security in any nation.
NCoS CG made the description at the Summit of African Correctional Services Association, ACSA Regional Conference on Prisoner Classification the Use of Technology in Prisons in Africa organised by Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the African Correctional Services Association (ACSA), in Abuja.
He also described the conference as a defining moment in Africa’s collective efforts to build correctional systems that are safer, more humane and responsive to contemporary security and rehabilitation challenges.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Correctional Service’s commitment to modernising correctional administration through reforms anchored on professionalism, innovation and international best practices, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
The Controller-General also observed that effective prisoner classification remains one of the most critical components of correctional management, as it enhances institutional security, protects vulnerable inmates, supports targeted rehabilitation programmes and improves reintegration outcomes.
He further disclosed that the Service is accelerating its digital transformation agenda through the deployment of biometric identification systems, electronic inmate records management, data-driven decision-making and continuous capacity development for personnel.
According to him, “This conference offers Africa an opportunity to share experiences, learn from one another and develop practical, home-grown solutions that will strengthen correctional administration across the continent while promoting public safety and respect for human dignity.”
In his remarks, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo urged Correctional leaders across African countries to leverage on technology that is capable of enhancing trans-border sharing of information that could stem the tide of trans-national crimes in the continent.
The Minister also enjoined Prisons Managers across the continent of Africa not to always treat inmates in their custody with dignity and respect for human rights, but to train correctional staff to fit for emerging technology that will ensures best practices across the Globe.
On his part, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Toure emphasized the importance of effective prisoner classification to the society and countries at large.
Represented by the Interregional Adviser on Prison and Penal Reform, Mr. Philip Meissner, noted that the conference coincides with activities marking Nelson Mandela International Day, underscoring the enduring relevance of the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (the Mandela Rules).
He stressed the importance of ensuring that technological innovation within correctional systems is implemented in a manner that safeguards human rights, promotes dignity and enhances institutional effectiveness across Africa.
President African Correctional Services Association, ACSA and National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services, South Africa, Makgothi Thobakgale urged the Summit on the need to use Technology in Prison Settings in Africa.
Thobakgale also described the conference as a landmark platform for deepening collaboration among African correctional institutions. He observed that technology has become indispensable in modern offender management through digital case management systems, biometric identification and improved correctional operations.
Also speaking, the Acting Director of the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), Mr. Douglas Grane, applauded the Nigerian Correctional Service for providing leadership in advancing correctional reforms across the continent, noting that stronger correctional institutions contribute significantly to justice sector reforms, public safety and regional security.
The opening day featured technical presentations on International Standards and Core Principles of Prisoner Classification and Implementing Effective Prisoner Classification Systems, providing participants with practical insights into global best practices and emerging innovations in correctional management.
Deliberations will continue over the next two days with sessions focusing on technology-driven correctional management, digital information systems, country experiences in prison reforms, regional collaboration and the adoption of strategic recommendations aimed at strengthening correctional services across Africa.
The three-day conference brought together correctional leaders, criminal justice experts, policymakers and delegates from 12 African countries to advance collaboration and share innovative correctional best practices.