By Ameh Gabriel
The attention of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has been drawn to a recent media publication alleging that officers were compelled to pay the sum of ₦350,000 for the issuance of training certificates, and further insinuating that the Service’s cooperative society has been converted into a “cash cow.”
This was contained in a statement signed Umar Abubakar Deputy Controller of Corrections Public Relations Officer Nigeria Correctional Service NCoS
The statement reads: The Service wishes to state unequivocally that these allegations are false, misleading, and entirely baseless. They are aimed at misinforming the public and undermining the integrity of the Service.
Training and retraining of officers remain a core part of the NCoS mandate on professional development. At no time has the Service authorized or permitted the collection of any fees beyond the approved ₦1,000 and ₦2,000 caution fees respectively. In line with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, staff welfare has been enhanced and remains a top priority. The Controller-General has consistently warned against unauthorized charges, as reflected in official circulars NCoS.005/S.48/V/84 dated 11th December 2024 and NCoS.005/S.203/TI/37 dated 8th July 2025.
On the cooperative society, the Service clarifies that it functions as a welfare support system for retired and deceased personnel, with all entitlements to beneficiaries up-to-date. Dismissed personnel are also paid their due benefits upon disengagement.
The cooperative additionally operates a licensed Microfinance Bank that offers financial relief to officers, as well as the COCOS Hotel, strategically located along Airport Road, Abuja. The hotel provides hospitality services, creates employment opportunities for youths, and has attracted commendations from Nigerians for its role in boosting welfare and community support.
The Nigerian Correctional Service therefore urges journalists and media organizations to verify information through the Complaint Response Desk via:
📧 complaintresponsedesk@corrections.gov.ng
before publication, in order to avoid misrepresentation of facts.
The Service remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the welfare of its officers and personnel.
