The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has refuted claims published by an online platform (not NEWSNGR) that prison officers were compelled to pay as much as N350,000 for training certificates and that the NCoS cooperative society has been turned into a “cash cow.”
In a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Deputy Controller of Corrections Umar Abubakar, the NCoS said the allegations were aimed at misinforming the public and undermining the integrity of the institution.
“The training and retraining of officers remain central to the Service’s professional development mandate. At no time has the NCoS authorised or permitted the collection of fees other than the payment of N1,000 and N2,000 caution fees, respectively,” the statement read.
Abubakar said the Controller General had consistently warned against illegal charges.
He cited radio broadcasts and circulars, including references NCoS.005/S.48/V/84 dated 11th December 2024 and NCoS.005/S.203/TI/37 dated 8th July 2025, as evidence of the Service’s strict stance against extortion.
On alleged funds misuse, the NCoS said the cooperative serves as a welfare system for retired and deceased personnel, while dismissed staff receive their entitlements upon disengagement.
“Presently, all entitlement payments to beneficiaries are up to date,” the statement added.
The Service also highlighted initiatives under the cooperative, including a Microfinance Bank that provides soft loans to officers and the establishment of COCOS Hotel along Airport Road, Abuja.
According to the NCoS, the hotel not only creates employment opportunities for youths but also offers resort services for travellers and has earned commendations from Nigerians.
Abubakar urged journalists to verify information with the NCoS through its Complaint Response Desk ([email protected]) before publication.
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