NCoS denies report on non-commencement of NIN registration in custodial centres

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has strongly denied recent media reports suggesting that the National Identity Number (NIN) registration has not commenced in any of the nation’s custodial centres.

The Service described the claim as “misleading, inaccurate, and not reflective of the current state of affairs.”

In a press release issued on Sunday, the Public Relations Officer of the NCoS, Umar Abubakar, stated:

“The attention of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has been drawn to a recent publication by a section of the media alleging that the National Identity Number (NIN) registration exercise is yet to commence in all custodial centres across the country. This report is misleading, inaccurate, and does not reflect the current state of affairs within our custodial facilities.”

According to Abubakar, the NIN registration of inmates is not only ongoing but has recorded “significant progress” across custodial centres nationwide.

“A majority of inmates across various custodial centres nationwide have already been successfully enrolled into the National Identity Database through the collaborative efforts of the Service and the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC),” he noted.

Providing specific figures, the statement disclosed:

“Available data show that as at 7th June, 2025, out of the total of 80,879 inmates’ population, 59,786 inmates — approximately 74% — have been captured into the NIMC platform.”

He further assured the public that the exercise is ongoing and that the remaining inmates would be registered in due course.

“The registration of the remaining inmates is actively in progress, and mechanisms have been put in place to ensure its seamless completion,” Abubakar said.

Challenging the accuracy of the media claim, he stressed:

“The claim that the registration has ‘yet to commence’ in custodial centres is factually incorrect and fails to acknowledge the substantial work already done.”

Abubakar reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to national integration efforts:

“The Service remains committed to the full integration of inmates into national data systems, including the NIN, as part of broader efforts to promote rehabilitation, reintegration, and the digital inclusion of all persons in custody.”

He also appealed to media practitioners to verify information before publication:

“The Service therefore urges members of the media to verify information with relevant authorities before publication, in order to avoid spreading misinformation that may mislead the public and undermine ongoing institutional efforts.”