Over 59,000 Prison Inmates in Nigeria Now Have National ID Numbers
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has announced that 59,786 inmates across the country have been registered for the National Identification Number (NIN). This number represents 74% of Nigeria’s total prison population, which is currently 80,879 inmates.
The NCoS shared this update in a statement on Sunday, explaining that the registration is being done in partnership with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC). The goal is to include inmates in Nigeria’s national identity database so they are not left out of government programs and services.
How the Registration is Going
As of June 7, 2025, 59,786 inmates (74%) have been registered.
The NCoS says arrangements are in place to register the remaining 21,093 inmates (26%) soon.
The registration is happening in all 256 prison facilities nationwide.
NCoS Denies False Reports
Some media reports had claimed that NIN registration had not yet started in Nigerian prisons. However, the NCoS has dismissed these reports as false and misleading.
The agency confirmed that the registration process began months ago and is already producing real results. They emphasized that most inmates in different prisons have already been successfully registered.
Why This Registration Matters
In January 2025, NIMC gave the NCoS permission to register all inmates for NIN. This is important because:
Prevents Exclusion – Inmates will not be left out of national programs like education, loans, and healthcare.
Improves Security – If an inmate escapes, their NIN can help track them.
Supports Rehabilitation – Many inmates earn degrees while in prison. The NIN helps them reintegrate into society after release.
What Government Officials Say
Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche (Acting Head of NCoS) said this registration supports prison reforms and helps inmates contribute to society.
Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote (NIMC Director-General) stated that NIN is crucial for Nigeria’s development. She mentioned that NIN is now required for bank accounts, student loans, and other services to prevent fraud.
NIN Registration Progress in Nigeria
As of April 2025, about 120 million Nigerians have been registered.
NIMC aims to register 100 million more by December 2025.
Our Thoughts
This NIN registration for inmates is a big step in ensuring that every Nigerian, including prisoners, is counted in national records. It helps with security, access to services, and future opportunities for inmates after their release.
The NCoS assures that the remaining inmates will be registered soon, and they encourage accurate reporting on the progress.
