In a landmark development aimed at addressing Nigeria’s identification crisis and improving its prison system, the National Identity Management Commission recently announced that it has approved the registration of inmates for the National Identification Number.
This initiative marks a significant step forward in a country grappling with complex identification challenges, systemic inefficiencies, and an urgent need to reform its correctional facilities.
The acting Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Nwakuche, while receiving the Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, in Abuja, stated that granting the licence to register inmates for the National Identification Number would address their exclusion from the nation’s development plans.
He further explained that the initiative would also enhance their safety and security, while facilitating their recapture in the event of jailbreak
Nwakuche noted that the visit aimed to foster collaboration, enabling the NCoS to effectively carry out its mandate in line with ongoing reforms within the Correctional Service system.
He said, “There have been significant socio-economic developments within the Correctional Service system, leading to several inmates obtaining university degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorates in various fields.
“Such inmates should not be excluded from the national development plans, as they should be integrated into society to become valuable contributors to their families and the country.”
Nwakuche also pointed out that correctional centres house individuals awaiting trial, whose innocence or guilt has yet to be determined by the courts.
He argued that these inmates should not be excluded from matters of national planning, census, and other critical development initiatives.
State of Nigerian prisons
Nigeria’s correctional facilities have long been plagued by overcrowding, poor sanitation, and inadequate resources. According to the NCoS, as of 2023, over 70 per cent of the prison population was awaiting trial, often for years.
These pretrial detainees, many of whom lack formal identification, are frequently lost in the bureaucratic maze of the judicial system.
Human rights organisations have consistently criticised the deplorable conditions in these facilities, often described as breeding grounds for criminality rather than centres for rehabilitation.
The introduction of NIN registration in prisons is seen as a step toward systemic reform.
By identifying inmates, the government can better manage prison populations, streamline judicial processes, and provide tailored rehabilitation programmes.
“Identification is the first step in recognising the humanity of these individuals,” said a criminologist, Dr Amina Yusuf. “Without it, they remain invisible to the system.”
Congestion
Overcrowding remains perhaps the most pressing issue facing Nigerian prisons. With many designed to accommodate approximately 50,000 inmates, these facilities are operating at over 150 per cent capacity. This severe congestion exacerbates already poor living conditions, with multiple inmates crammed into cells intended for far fewer occupants.
In such environments, diseases like tuberculosis and scabies spread rapidly, while access to basic necessities such as clean water and adequate meals is severely limited.
The issue is further complicated by gender dynamics. Male inmates make up the overwhelming majority, constituting over 95 per cent of the prison population.
Although fewer in number, female inmates face unique challenges, including a lack of proper maternal care facilities and heightened vulnerability to abuse.
Another concerning trend is the detention of juveniles in adult facilities, which violates both international conventions and Nigeria’s Child Rights Act.
Nigeria’s identification crisis
The Nigerian identification crisis is a longstanding issue that continues to affect millions of citizens. As of 2022, only about 42 per cent of Nigerians were registered in the NIMC database, according to the World Bank.
This lack of a comprehensive identification system has far-reaching consequences, ranging from restricted access to financial services and healthcare to undermining national security.
Marginalised groups, including rural populations, internally displaced persons, and inmates, are particularly affected by this challenge.
The Nigerian government has made significant efforts to address this crisis. The introduction of the NIN was intended to serve as a unique identifier for every citizen and legal resident, integrating data across various sectors. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, funding constraints, and public scepticism have hampered the programme’s rollout.
By extending NIN registration to inmates, the NIMC is taking a bold step toward inclusivity. This move not only aligns with global best practices but also underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that no Nigerian is left behind, regardless of their circumstances.
The collaboration between the NIMC and the NCoS is a pivotal aspect of this initiative. Under this arrangement, NIMC officials will visit correctional facilities across the country to register inmates for NIN.
The process involves capturing biometric data, including fingerprints and facial images, and verifying personal information to create a unique identity profile for each inmate.
To ensure sustainability and efficiency, NCoS staff will also be trained to operate NIMC registration equipment.
This initiative is expected to improve data sharing between the NCoS and other government agencies, enhancing transparency and accountability within the justice system.
NIN in prison administration
Experts have highlighted the transformative potential of the NIMC programme in addressing numerous challenges within the prison system. By registering inmates for the NIN, the government can introduce a level of structure and accountability previously absent.
A social identification expert and lecturer at the Cornerstone University, Bonny Satellite Campus, Mr Sampson Kalada, emphasised the benefits of the NIN registration for improving prison administration.
He stated, “NIN registration allows for the creation of a comprehensive database of inmates, including biometric data and personal information. This can help administrators monitor inmate movements, allocate resources more efficiently, and maintain accurate records. For instance, during prison breaks—a recurrent issue in Nigeria—the NIN database can be instrumental in tracking escaped inmates and facilitating their recapture.”
Another identity expert, Dr Stephens Mensah, noted that the NIN could also streamline justice delivery.
He remarked, “Many inmates languish in prison due to delayed trials and lost records. With the NIN, the judicial system can verify identities more quickly, track case progress, and ensure that inmates are not detained longer than necessary. This can help reduce congestion and uphold the rights of pretrial detainees.”
“A senior psychologist based in Akwa Ibom, Dr Usen Essien, also explained that registering inmates would facilitate rehabilitation and reintegration into society.”
He said, “NIN provides inmates with a formal identity, which is crucial for accessing post-incarceration opportunities such as employment, vocational training, and social welfare programmes. This reduces the likelihood of recidivism and supports their reintegration into society.
“By maintaining an up-to-date database, the NIN system strengthens national security. In the event of a prison break, authorities can quickly identify and track escaped individuals, mitigating threats to public safety.”
Essien also noted that the NIN database ensures equitable distribution of palliatives, such as food, clothing, and medical supplies, by accurately identifying and prioritising inmates’ needs.
This prevents resource diversion and ensures that aid reaches those who need it most.
Challenges and criticisms
While the initiative has received widespread praise, it is not without challenges and criticisms. Key concerns include funding constraints and data privacy issues.
Implementing the programme across Nigeria’s 244 correctional facilities requires significant resources. Critics have questioned whether the NIMC and NCoS have the financial and logistical capacity to execute the plan effectively.
Additionally, the collection and storage of inmates’ biometric data raise important questions about data privacy and security. Experts called for robust measures to prevent misuse or unauthorised access to sensitive information.
The initiative has also sparked mixed public reactions. While some see it as a progressive step, others argue that resources should be prioritised for law-abiding citizens who remain unregistered.
“It’s a delicate balance,” said Olumide Adewale, a sociologist researcher published on ResearchGate.
“The government must ensure that this initiative does not come at the expense of other critical identification efforts.”
Global perspectives
Nigeria’s decision to register inmates for NIN aligns with global trends in prison reform and identification. Countries like the United States, Canada, and South Africa have implemented similar programmes, recognising the importance of identification in criminal justice and rehabilitation.
In South Africa, for instance, inmates are issued a unique identifier upon entry into the prison system, which is linked to their criminal records and rehabilitation programmes.
This approach has improved case management and reduced recidivism rates. Nigeria’s initiative could benefit from studying such models to address local challenges effectively.
Broader implications
The implications of registering inmates for NIN extend beyond prison reform. For example, this initiative could help reduce voter disenfranchisement, as identification is essential for voter registration.
It could also improve the accuracy of population statistics, aiding in national planning and resource allocation. Furthermore, by including inmates in the national database, Nigeria is setting a precedent for inclusivity that could inspire similar reforms in other sectors.
The success of this initiative hinges on collaboration among various stakeholders, including the judiciary, civil society, and international partners.
Civil society organisations can play a critical role in monitoring the programme’s implementation and advocating for inmates’ rights.
International organisations, such as the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, could provide technical a nd financial support to ensure the programme’s success.
Overcoming logistical challenges
Implementing the NIN registration programme in Nigeria’s correctional facilities is no small feat. Logistical challenges, such as the lack of electricity, inadequate staffing, and limited access to remote prisons, must be addressed.
Experts suggest that one potential solution is the use of mobile registration units equipped with solar-powered devices, which can operate in off-grid locations.
Technology will also play a crucial role in ensuring the programme’s success.
“Advanced biometric systems can ensure accurate data collection and minimise errors. Additionally, integrating the NIN database with other government systems can enhance data sharing and improve service delivery. For example, linking the NIN database with police records could help track criminal histories more efficiently,” noted data privacy and cloud computing expert Williams Felix.
Building public trust
Public trust is essential for the success of any government initiative. To build trust, the NIMC and NCoS must ensure transparency and accountability in the programme’s implementation.
Regular updates on the programme’s progress, along with independent audits, could help build confidence among stakeholders.
To ensure the initiative’s success, several steps must be taken, including adequate funding, public awareness campaigns, collaboration with stakeholders, robust data security measures, and rigorous monitoring and evaluation.
- This report is produced under the DPI Africa Journalism Fellowship Programme of the Media Foundation for West Africa and Co-Develop
