The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has officially refuted a publication by a national tabloid on June 2, 2025, claiming that 26,000 children are held in custodial centres across Nigeria.

The Service in a statement by the National Spokesman Abubakar Umar, labeled the report as misleading and a gross misrepresentation of facts, warning that it could mislead the public and harm its credibility.

It stated that In compliance with national and international legal standards, it does not admit individuals under the age of 18 into adult custodial centres.

?The Service categorically refutes this baseless and unfounded report and views it as a gross misrepresentation of facts capable of misleading the public and undermining the credibility of the Service.

?For the avoidance of doubt, the Nigerian Correctional Service, in line with national and international legal standards, does not admit children into custodial centres,? Umar said.

Referring to the Nigerian Correctional Service Act of 2019 and the Child Rights Act of 2003, the service said minors in conflict with the law are handled through a separate juvenile justice system, typically referred to juvenile detention facilities like Borstal Training Institutions or state-owned remand centres.

The Service emphasized its rigorous procedures for verifying the age and identity of inmates upon admission, collaborating with agencies such as the police, judiciary, and social welfare departments to ensure appropriate classification and protection of minors.

Concerned about the damaging implications of the report on its image and Nigeria?s human rights record, NCoS reiterated its commitment to upholding human rights and protecting vulnerable groups, including children.

It urged the public and media to verify sensitive information through official channels before dissemination. (The Guardian)