In celebration of Nigeria’s 2025 Democracy Day, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has granted state and partial pardons to 66 inmates at the Maiduguri Maximum Custodial Centre.
The governor also commuted several death sentences to life imprisonment and reduced the prison terms of others, as part of a broader effort to promote justice reform and rehabilitation.
Governor Zulum made the announcement on Thursday during a visit to the facility, where he stated that the decision was based on the recommendations of the state’s Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy.
“Based on the powers conferred on me under Section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), and the recommendations of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy, I hereby grant state and partial pardons to 66 inmates,” Zulum declared.
He explained that the move was aimed at offering deserving inmates a second chance and encouraging their reintegration into society. “We are committed to reforming the justice system and ensuring that those who have shown genuine remorse and good conduct are given an opportunity to rebuild their lives,” the governor said.
As part of his visit, governor Zulum also unveiled plans to upgrade the correctional centre’s vocational training programme. The initiative will focus on providing inmates with literacy, numeracy, and digital skills to enhance their prospects after incarceration.
“I have directed the Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation to work with the management of the custodial centre to revamp the vocational training unit. This will enable inmates to acquire practical skills during their stay,” he added.
To further support inmates’ welfare, the governor donated 300 bags of rice, 50 Jerry cans of cooking oil, and five cows to the facility. He also approved a ₦20,000 cash donation for each of the 1,280 inmates currently in custody.
“In line with regulations, the cash assistance will be handed over to correctional officials for safekeeping and will be accessible to inmates as needed,” Zulum clarified.
The governor urged inmates to maintain discipline and avoid any actions that could undermine peace and security in the state.
Reacting to the gesture, the Controller of Borno State Correctional Service, Ahmed Bawa, lauded the governor’s continued support, describing it as unprecedented.
“This level of support is historic. Just last month, we received 100 bags of rice, 20 cartons of oil, and 10 bulls. Now, the governor has returned with even more assistance. We are sincerely grateful,” Bawa said.
In a show of appreciation, the inmates’ leader, Gambo Simon, praised the governor’s inclusive approach to governance.
“We thank Governor Zulum for remembering us. Even from behind bars, we feel the impact of his leadership,” Simon said.