1,271 Nigerians Serving Non-Custodial Sentences Nationwide

Nigeria's justice system is actively utilizing non-custodial sentences, with 1,271 offenders currently serving alternative measures across the country. The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) released statistics showing that males constitute the vast majority, accounting for approximately 89% of those under these sentences.

Community service stands out as the most frequently applied non-custodial measure, with 1,038 individuals engaged in such activities. Additionally, 12 offenders are currently on parole, and 34 are serving probation sentences. The NCoS data also indicates that 162 offenders are participating in restorative justice programs, with a further 25 individuals under other forms of non-custodial measures.

The introduction of the Non-Custodial Service Act in 2019 marked a significant reform, replacing the older Nigerian Prisons Service framework. This legislation established alternatives to imprisonment, including community service, probation, parole, and restorative justice. The primary objectives are to alleviate overcrowding in custodial centers and foster offender rehabilitation, aligning with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act of 2015.

Implementation of these reforms began in phases, with the Federal Capital Territory and Lagos State being among the initial jurisdictions to adopt these measures. The program has since gradually expanded to other states, with increased awareness and adoption noted in states like Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Kano, Lagos, and Plateau. The NCoS continues to advocate for wider implementation by state judiciaries as part of ongoing efforts to decongest correctional facilities nationwide.

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Non-Custodial Statistics Summary Summary Of Inmates Population By Convict And Awaiting Trial Persons As At 29th June 2026. Total: 1,271. Total Male: 1,137. Total Female: 134: Community Service: 1,038. Male: 992 and Female: 46 “Parole: 12, Male: nine and Female: three