Nigeria, March 1 -- The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has revealed that a staggering 53,254 inmates across various custodial centres in the country are currently awaiting trial.

This figure highlights the ongoing challenges within Nigeria's judicial system, where delays in legal proceedings have contributed significantly to congestion in correctional facilities.

According to the latest data released by the NCoS, which was last updated on February 24, 2025, the total number of inmates in correctional centres nationwide stands at 80,100. Out of this population, only 26,846 inmates have been tried, convicted, and sentenced, while the remaining majority are still awaiting their day in court.

The high number of pre-trial detainees ha...