By Muhammad Mamman
The Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, issued a stern warning to senior officers, vowing strict sanctions for those neglecting their duties amid recent security breaches at custodial centers. The ceremony, held Friday, marked the promotion of 30 officers to the rank of Assistant Controller-General (ACG), a milestone Nwakuche described as a call to greater responsibility and leadership.
Nwakuche expressed dismay over what he called a “lackadaisical attitude” among some personnel, directly linking their negligence to recent jailbreaks that have raised concerns about the security of Nigeria’s correctional facilities. “It is obvious that our zonal coordinators, state controllers, and officers-in-charge of custodial centers have abdicated their duties,” Nwakuche said. “This is unacceptable and will no longer be tolerated. Any further abdication of responsibilities will surely attract the big stick.”
Addressing the newly promoted ACGs, Nwakuche emphasized that their elevation is not merely a change in rank but a recognition of their years of diligence, sacrifice, and commitment. He described the ACG rank as the “zenith of career progression,” urging the officers to take full control of their zones, states, and custodial centers. “Leadership at this level is about service, not titles,” he said, quoting leadership expert John C. Maxwell: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.”
The Controller General called on the officers to embody the principles of the NCoS Act of 2019, which emphasizes rehabilitation and reintegration over punitive imprisonment. “Every offender is redeemable,” Nwakuche said, reaffirming the service’s mission to provide world-class custodial and non-custodial services that prioritize public protection and align with global best practices.
Nwakuche also extended gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support and to Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo for championing staff welfare and institutional reforms. He acknowledged the families of the promoted officers, calling them the “silent strength” behind their success. “As we pin these new ranks on your shoulders, let them be symbols of trust, accountability, and higher responsibility,” he said. “Our nation is watching, and history will judge how well we lead.”
Speaking on behalf of the newly promoted ACGs, Sylvanus Yakubu hailed Nwakuche as a “game changer” whose leadership has revitalized the service. “We appreciate the game changer for allowing God to use him and for putting smiles on our faces,” Yakubu said. He pledged that the officers would justify their promotions through dedicated service, viewing their new roles as a mandate for greater responsibility. “We promise we will not disappoint,” he assured.
