April 19, 2025
Over 26,000 children in prisons, says minister Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has raised concerns over the incarceration of over 26,000 children in the nation’s custodial centres, describing the situation as alarming. According to him, the figure accounts for 30 per cent of the total inmate population in correctional facilities across the country. Tunji-Ojo, who called for urgent reforms in Nigeria’s criminal justice system to protect vulnerable groups, spoke at an inter-agency stakeholder meeting in Abuja yesterday. A statement by the Director of Press at the Ministry of Interior, Ozoya Imohimi, quoted the minister as saying: “Approximately 26,000 children are held in correctional facilities annually, representing over 30 per cent of the total inmate population. “This statistic raises serious concerns regarding child protection laws. The presence of children in custodial centres violates existing laws mandating their placement in borstal institutions for proper reformation in line with their age.” He assured that breaches of the laws would be investigated, warning that institutions failing to comply would face consequences. He also reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to reforming the correctional system, particularly focusing on the growing number of children in custody. The minister disclosed plans to establish a Nigerian Paramilitary Academy to train correctional officers on empathy and rehabilitation principles. Emphasising the need for non-custodial measures for non-violent offenders, he stressed the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration and urged state governments to actively participate in efforts to address juvenile detention.

The Federal Government has declared Friday, April 18, and Monday, April 21, as public holidays to commemorate Good Friday and Easter Monday.

This was announced in a statement issued Tuesday in Abuja by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

Speaking on behalf of the Federal Government, Tunji-Ojo congratulated Christians across the country, urging them to reflect on the virtues of sacrifice and love exemplified by Jesus Christ in his death for humanity’s redemption.

He called on Nigerians to use the Easter holiday to pray for peace, unity, and stability in the nation.

The minister reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at fostering national growth and development.

He also encouraged citizens to show love and goodwill to their neighbours through acts of kindness and generosity.

Tunji-Ojo extended warm Easter greetings to all Christians and wished Nigerians a joyful holiday celebration.

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