The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCS) announced on Thursday that the federal government has raised the feeding allowance for inmates by 50%, with the new rate taking effect from August 2024.
Abubakar Umar, the spokesperson for the NCS, confirmed the development in an interview with Punch, stating that the increase is part of the government’s efforts to address rising food prices and improve the welfare of inmates. He also indicated that this increase is only the first phase, with more adjustments expected in the future to further enhance living conditions for inmates.
“The inmate feeding allowance has been increased by 50%, effective August 2024. This is just the first phase,” Umar said, adding that more reviews will be conducted. He explained that the adjustment came after the federal government reviewed the budget and found it necessary to address the rising cost of food. “Further adjustments are expected,” he noted.