NCoS Spends Over N1bn on Personnel Welfare in 2024
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has disbursed over N1.047 billion in welfare support for 1,024 serving, retired, and deceased personnel in 2024.
The Acting Controller-General of NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, disclosed this during the 19th anniversary celebration of the Correctional Welfare Insurance Scheme (CWIS) in Abuja on Wednesday.
Speaking on the theme, “Protecting Those Who Protect: Unlocking the Power of Welfare Insurance for Correctional Personnel,” Nwakuche highlighted the crucial role of welfare insurance in safeguarding personnel who contribute immensely to national security and justice.
“Over the years, CWIS has remained a critical pillar of support for NCoS officers, consistently evolving to provide much-needed financial assistance to serving, retired, and deceased personnel, as well as their families,” he said.
He revealed that between January and December 2024, CWIS paid N188.7 million in death benefits to the families of 138 deceased personnel, while 886 medical and retirement claims amounting to N858.9 million were settled.
“In aggregate, 1,024 beneficiaries received a total sum of N1,047,686,023 within the period under review. These figures reflect our unwavering commitment to the well-being of our personnel and their families,” he stated.
Nwakuche emphasized that correctional officers operate in a high-risk environment, making their welfare a top priority.
“It is based on this premise that my policy thrust is anchored on staff welfare, recognising that a highly motivated workforce is essential for the successful implementation of our laws, policies, and institutional reforms,” he added.
He assured personnel that CWIS would continue to expand, with ongoing reforms aimed at enhancing its efficiency and sustainability.
In her remarks, the CWIS Secretary, Assistant Controller of Corrections, Hannatu Mamman, described the annual workshop as a watershed moment for NCoS, fostering reforms that improve personnel welfare.
“Basically, this workshop is organised to raise awareness about the importance of welfare insurance for correctional personnel, identify key challenges and opportunities for improvement, and foster functional collaboration among stakeholders,” Mamman stated.
The event featured the presentation of awards to past Controller-Generals, CWIS executive members, and officers for outstanding dedication and service.