By Kingsley Omonobi

Following the harsh economic situation and high cost of foodstuff in the country, the Federal Government has approved a 50 per cent increase in the feeding allowance for inmates in Nigeria, with effect from August 2024.

ACC Abubakar Umar, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Correctional Service, made this known on Thursday noting that it is the “first phase” of a broader review of inmate’s welfare to enhance living conditions for inmates.

Speaking on widely reported poor feeding and other conditions in the Correctional Centres, Umar said, “The inmate feeding allowance has been increased by 50 per cent, effective from August 2024. This is just the first phase”.

“The FG will also consider additional reviews. This is just the first phase. Normally, there is a period when inmate feeding allowances are reviewed.

“Following a presentation during the budget process, the FG deemed it necessary to adjust the allowance due to the rising cost of food. Further adjustments are expected,” Umar explained.

Recall that a viral video of In-mates poor feeding conditions emerged recently showing Inmates at the Afokang Custodial Centre in Calabar, Cross River State, being fed with poorly cooked meals.

The spokesman said he could not  speak more on the development  because an investigation ordered by the Minister of Interior,  Mr Olubunmi Ojo is yet to be submitted

He however insisted that the video incident dies not reflect standards obtainable in the NCoS facilities across the country

It was gathered that hitherto, Inmates were fed with N750  a per day