The minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has disclosed that the federal government has commenced the construction of 3,000-capacity Maximum Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in the six geopolitical zones of the country.
Speaking as the reviewing officer at the 315 officers’ passing-out parade of the 28th ASC Basic Course at the correctional service staff college, Barnawa, Kaduna, the minister said, so far, the 3000 MSCC projects have commenced and progressing in Janguza, Kano State (North-west), Karshi, FCT (North-central) and Bori, Rivers State (South-south), while other zones would be captured in due course.
Represented by the Controller General of the Correctional Centre, Mr Ja’afaru Ahmed, the minister said the Basic Course is designed to expose the officers to the rudiments of management and general administration, with special emphasis on Custodial and Non-Custodial Management and Correctional Studies.
“Let me also remind you that as first-line managers in the Nigerian Correctional Service, your roles are crucial in the promotion of national security, as you are expected to contribute to crime prevention and control by ensuring the safety and security of those in your custody.
“Moreover, as change agents, you are to ensure the reformation, rehabilitation and successful reintegration of deviants back to society upon discharge.
“On our part, the Ministry of Interior, in conjunction with the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, his team, and other Stakeholders, as well have continued to take measures to facilitate the smooth implementation of the Act. In doing this, we expect all hands to be on deck; you are therefore welcome on board.”
He commended the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service and his Management Team for leading the service well. “It is not an exaggeration to say that the service is actually witnessing great transformation, which you all can even attest to, both in terms of infrastructural development, staff welfare, and otherwise.” he stated.