Five months after the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) granted the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) authorization to register inmates for National Identity Numbers (NIN), the initiative has yet to commence across custodial centers nationwide. The program, approved in January 2025, aims to integrate inmates into national development strategies, bolster their security, and streamline identification processes, particularly in the event of jailbreaks.

The NIMC had issued the NCoS a license to conduct these registrations across 256 custodial facilities following a request from the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche. Nwakuche had personally appealed to the NIMC Director-General, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, during a visit to Abuja, emphasizing that NIN registration would address the exclusion of inmates from national programs and enhance internal security within correctional facilities. He also highlighted its crucial role in locating and recapturing escapees.

Despite this proactive step and official approval, the registration process remains in limbo. Insiders within the NCoS reveal that significant logistical hurdles are still being addressed before the program can be rolled out.

When questioned about the delay, NCoS spokesperson Umar Abubakar confirmed that preparations are ongoing, stressing the monumental scale of the undertaking. "Work is in progress," Abubakar stated. "Don’t forget we have about 256 custodial centres across the federation, and it will take time to ensure all inmates are keyed into the system."

The delay raises concerns about the timely implementation of a crucial initiative designed to improve national security and inmate welfare. Stakeholders are keen to see the logistical arrangements finalized swiftly to allow for the commencement of this vital registration process.