26,000 Children Held Annually In Correctional Facilities –FG

The federal government has expressed concern over the detention of at least 26,000 children in correctional facilities across Nigeria each year for the past five years.

Speaking at a high-level inter-agency meeting in Abuja, Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo described the situation as alarming, stating that these children represent over 30% of the total inmate population-an apparent violation of child protection laws.

“The law is clear-children should not be in adult correctional centres. We will not tolerate breaches of this law. Institutions failing to uphold these protections will face consequences,” he said.

The minister acknowledged the lack of adequate facilities for juvenile offenders and called for urgent action to close legal and institutional gaps.

“This meeting marks a decisive step toward ending the unlawful detention of children. By enforcing the Nigerian Child Rights Act of 2003 and scaling up non-custodial measures and rehabilitation programs, we can reintegrate these children into society,” he said.

Tunji-Ojo emphasized the need for political will and resources to drive systemic reforms, ensuring that by 2027, discussions focus on achievements rather than unfulfilled promises.