A total of 1,271 offenders are currently serving different forms of non-custodial sentences across the country, according to the latest figures released by the Nigerian Correctional Service.
The Punch reported that statistics obtained from the NCoS on Tuesday showed that men constitute the overwhelming majority of offenders under non-custodial measures, with 1,137 males compared to 134 females.
The data revealed that community service remains the most common alternative sentencing option nationwide, with 1,038 offenders participating in the programme. Of that number, 992 are men while 46 are women.
The figures also showed that 12 offenders are currently serving parole sentences, made up of nine males and three females.
Probation accounts for 34 offenders, including 30 men and four women.
“Non-Custodial Statistics Summary Summary Of Inmates Population By Convict And Awaiting Trial Persons As At 29th June 2026.
“Total: 1,271. Total Male: 1,137. Total Female: 134: Community Service: 1,038. Male: 992 and Female: 46
“Parole: 12, Male: nine and Female: three,” the data read.
Further analysis of the NCoS statistics indicated that 162 offenders are participating in restorative justice programmes. This category comprises 84 males and 78 females.
Another 25 offenders are classified under other non-custodial measures, with 22 males and three females recorded in that group.
Overall, the figures indicate that males represent approximately 89 per cent of offenders serving non-custodial sentences, while females account for about 11 per cent.
The non-custodial framework was introduced under the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, as part of efforts to ease congestion in correctional facilities by providing alternative sentencing options for eligible offenders.
The reform formally replaced the former Nigerian Prisons Service structure and established measures such as community service, probation, parole and restorative justice as alternatives to imprisonment.
Beyond reducing overcrowding in custodial centres, the initiative is aimed at encouraging rehabilitation, reintegration and a more effective criminal justice system.
The programme is also in line with the provisions of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) 2015.
Its implementation commenced gradually, with the Federal Capital Territory and Lagos among the earliest jurisdictions to adopt community service and other alternative sentencing measures before the initiative expanded to other parts of the country.
Over the years, implementation and public awareness have increased in states such as Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Kano, Lagos and Plateau.
The Nigerian Correctional Service has continued to advocate broader adoption of non-custodial sentencing by state judiciaries as part of ongoing efforts to reduce pressure on custodial facilities nationwide.
