FG panel uncovers prison feeding scam, pushes N3,000 allowance

An independent investigative panel commissioned by the Federal Government has exposed severe issues within the Nigerian Correctional Service, including widespread inmate malnutrition and alleged corruption in the administration of feeding contracts. The panel's final report, submitted on June 3, 2026, recommends an immediate increase in the daily feeding allowance for inmates from N750 to N3,000.

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Inadequate feeding budget and corruption in food supply have resulted in widespread malnutrition among inmates.

The panel, established on September 30, 2024, to probe corruption and human rights violations, conducted assessments across 86 custodial facilities in 23 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Its investigation, which included public hearings and a study mission to Türkiye, revealed deficiencies in inmate welfare, particularly concerning feeding arrangements.

Investigators found evidence suggesting misappropriation or diversion of funds intended for inmate feeding, healthcare, and rehabilitation. The report highlights instances of inflated feeding contract figures and missing rehabilitation program funds. It concludes that inadequate feeding budgets and corruption in food supply chains have led to significant malnutrition among inmates.

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Specific Finding (Imo State): Feeding provisions are critically deficient; the panel recorded instances where nominal portions of raw protein (fish) were subdivided into fractional pieces for multiple inmates in Owerri Correctional Centre.

Specific findings detailed alarming conditions in several facilities. In the Owerri Correctional Centre in Imo State, nominal portions of raw protein were reportedly subdivided for multiple inmates. In Akwa Ibom State, malnutrition is a major concern due to poor food rations, with reports of inmate deaths linked to these conditions. The investigation also uncovered irregularities in contract awards, with many food supply contracts given to companies located far from the facilities they serve, creating opportunities for subcontracting.

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Specific Finding (Akwa Ibom State): Malnutrition is a significant concern due to poor food rations, with reports of inmate deaths.