The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to introduce large-scale farming programmes across Nigeria’s correctional centres to combat inmate malnutrition, enhance food security, and equip prisoners with practical agricultural and vocational skills.
The proposal followed a motion moved by Hon. Folorunsho Adegbesan, representing Ijebu North/Ijebu East/Waterside Federal Constituency of Ogun State. The lawmaker raised alarm over poor feeding conditions in prisons, describing the quality of meals as “inhumane” and “unfit for rehabilitation.”
Adegbesan cited several African judicial rulings where inadequate nutrition in correctional facilities was deemed a violation of human rights. He also referenced World Health Organisation (WHO) research linking food quality to both mental and physical well-being, key factors in the reformation and reintegration of inmates.
Nigeria’s correctional system currently accommodates 84,741 inmates, comprising 82,821 men and 1,920 women, many of whom suffer from chronic undernourishment. The lawmaker argued that engaging prisoners in structured farming programmes would yield fresh and healthy produce to improve diets within facilities, while imparting hands-on agricultural knowledge.
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Lawmakers who supported the motion said the programme aligns with the country’s broader push toward sustainable agriculture and skills-based rehabilitation. The resolution was subsequently adopted, with the House mandating the relevant committees to liaise with the Nigerian Correctional Service and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture for implementation.
