The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Kano State Command, says it recorded a total of 151 non-custodial sentences in the first quarter of the year, underscoring efforts to decongest custodial centres and expand the use of alternative justice measures.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Musbahu Lawan Knassarawa, disclosed this in a statement on Monday, noting that the figures were compiled from reports received from courts across the state.
According to the statement, the development reflects the growing adoption of non-custodial sentencing by judicial officers, particularly in cases involving minor offences.
The Command noted that the approach aligns with global best practices aimed at promoting rehabilitation while reducing overcrowding in correctional facilities.
A breakdown of the data shows that Magistrates’ Courts accounted for 85 convictions under non-custodial sentences, while High Courts recorded six and Shari’a Courts handled 60 cases within the period.
The statement added that the Kano State Non-Custodial Unit remains fully operational, supported by the collaboration of judges, magistrates and Shari’a court judges who continue to implement alternatives to imprisonment.
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Non-custodial sentencing, as provided under the Nigerian Correctional Service Act 2019, includes measures such as community service, probation, parole and restorative justice, all aimed at addressing congestion in custodial centres and facilitating the reintegration of offenders into society.
The Controller of Corrections in the state, Ahmed Yusuf Lakpene, commended the judiciary for what he described as sustained synergy with the Service.
He said the increasing use of non-custodial measures represents “a progressive and impactful approach” consistent with modern correctional practices.
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Lakpene also praised the Officer in Charge of the Non-Custodial Unit, Musa Muhammad Kibiya, for his leadership and commitment to implementing the programme effectively.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening alternative sentencing frameworks as a strategy to enhance rehabilitation, reduce reoffending and improve public safety.
