Abuja: The Prison Fellowship Nigeria (PFN) has called for urgent reforms in the nation’s criminal justice system to decongest the rising number of inmates in correctional centres across the country. The Executive Director of PFN, Dr. Jacob Tsado, made the call at PFN’s Family Weekend and 2025 Annual General Meeting themed ‘Your Kingdom Come’ from the book of Matthew 6:10, in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the PFN, which was founded 37 years ago, operates in 33 states of Nigeria, working inside correctional facilities and engaging with justice system stakeholders. Tsado emphasized that the fellowship has been engaging with relevant authorities to address issues around the decongestion of the centres. He stated that PFN has initiated the restorative justice programme to provide avenues for effective resolution of simple cases, thus avoiding the overcrowding of correctional facilities.
Tsado mentioned that PFN is advocating for restorative justice and changes within the system that will alleviate this issue. The organization is collaborating with like-minded groups to discuss these challenges and find solutions. He stressed the importance of addressing this issue as it reflects the character of the nation. Tsado indicated that PFN aims to propose additional solutions to the government and relevant authorities over the weekend.
He noted that PFN has established restorative justice steering committees in eight states across all geopolitical zones of Nigeria this year. These committees consist of judges, attorneys general, police members, correctional centre representatives, human rights groups, and others dedicated to formulating implementation strategies for restorative justice.
Tsado also highlighted the Onesimus Pre-Release Empowerment Programme, which prepares inmates nearing release by enhancing their skills for employment. PFN supports these individuals with starter packs and mentorship for 12 months post-release, which has decreased the recidivism rate among participants. The executive director described PFN as a coalition of individuals, churches, and ministries promoting restorative justice and engaging with correctional and judicial institutions nationwide.
Mr. Adegbaye Olalekan, Chairman of PFN’s FCT Chapter, commended the government and stakeholders, especially the Ministry of Justice and Internal Affairs, for their support and urged them to continue aiding in reforming Nigeria’s justice system. He remarked on the effectiveness of PFN’s strategies and called on Nigerians to support PFN’s compassionate service. Olalekan appealed to journalists and the public to help bring compassion and second chances to people in correctional centres.