In a significant policy shift aimed at improving the welfare of inmates, the Federal Government of Nigeria has announced a 50% increase in feeding allowances for prisoners across the country.
The development was revealed through an official statement by Nigerian Stories on its X (formerly Twitter) handle, signaling a renewed commitment to addressing the dire conditions in correctional facilities.
This decision comes amid growing concerns over overcrowding, malnutrition, and poor healthcare in Nigerian prisons. Rights groups and civil society organizations have persistently demanded urgent reforms, arguing that the current budget allocation for feeding inmates is grossly inadequate.
While the increase marks a step in the right direction, critics argue that fundamental prison reforms are necessary to ensure the humane treatment of detainees. Many believe that rehabilitation, skill acquisition programs, and decongestion efforts should be prioritized alongside improved nutrition.
As the government takes this bold step, stakeholders will be watching to see how effectively the funds are implemented and whether further reforms will follow.
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