Nigeria’s prison population rose by 11,764 inmates between 2017 and the second quarter of 2025, according to the latest data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The report shows that the total number of inmates increased from 69,946 in 2017 to 81,710 by mid-2025, representing a 16.8 per cent growth over the period. Despite efforts to expand correctional infrastructure, prison capacity rose from 53,752 to 65,035, leaving many facilities severely overcrowded.
NBS data indicate that awaiting-trial inmates remain the largest contributor to congestion. Their number climbed from 47,610 in 2017 to 53,790 in 2025, underscoring persistent delays in the judicial process and prolonged pretrial detention.
At the state level, Lagos State recorded the highest inmate population, with correctional centres operating far above their designed capacity. Other states with high inmate numbers include Ogun, Kano, and Enugu, while Kogi, Bayelsa, and Benue reported the lowest figures.
Analysts say the figures highlight deep-seated challenges in Nigeria’s criminal justice system, renewing calls for faster trials, justice sector reforms, and wider use of non-custodial measures to ease pressure on the nation’s prisons. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.