The Acting Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, has  disclosed that 48,932 inmates currently held in the country’s prisons are Awaiting Trial Persons (ATPs).

Nwakuche disclosed this while speaking during an interactive session with field officers on Monday.

He noted that overcrowding is the most significant challenge of the NCoS, adding that the Service would collaborate with the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Inspector-General of Police, and other prosecuting agencies to expedite trials for inmates awaiting court proceedings.

The Acting CG added that his administration plans to push for non-custodial measures, early release mechanisms, and the construction of 3,000-capacity ultra-modern custodial facilities.

“Presently, our statistics as at Monday, January 6 2025 showed that 48,932 inmates in custody are awaiting trial persons (ATPs).

“I intend to interface with the attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice, the inspector-general of police, and other prosecuting agencies and critical stakeholders to fast track the trial of these inmates.

“This is necessary, especially those on non-bailable offences like armed robbery, murder and others that constitute over 60 percent of awaiting trial persons (ATPs).

“This administration will explore the window of opportunities as provided by the non-custodial Measures to address the influx of inmates into our facilities,” he said.