Prison Inmates to See 50% Increase in Feeding Allowance – FG

In response to the current economic challenges and rising food costs, the Federal Government has approved a 50 percent increase in the daily feeding allowance for Nigerian prison inmates, starting August 2024. This adjustment marks the initial phase of a broader initiative aimed at improving inmates’ welfare and living conditions.

ACC Abubakar Umar, Public Relations Officer for the Nigeria Correctional Service, announced the change on Thursday, describing it as a preliminary step in a comprehensive review of inmate support. Umar emphasized that this increase is just the beginning and that further reviews are anticipated.

“This adjustment is the first phase of a larger plan,” Umar stated. “The Federal Government will consider additional revisions as part of the regular review cycle for inmate feeding allowances.”

The decision follows a presentation during the budget process highlighting the need for an increase due to the escalating cost of food.

Recent attention was drawn to the issue following the release of a viral video showing poor feeding conditions at the Afokang Custodial Centre in Calabar, Cross River State. Umar noted that an ongoing investigation, ordered by the Minister of Interior, Mr. Olubunmi Ojo, has yet to be completed. He stressed that the video does not accurately reflect the standards of Nigeria Correctional Service facilities nationwide.

Previously, inmates received N750 per day for food.