Back to Africa Check

How many people are in Nigerian prisons?

According to the Nigerian Correctional Service, as of 2023, the total inmate population is 74,872. Of the inmates, 22,933 are convicted prisoners, while 51,939 are awaiting trial.

More facts

For reading our fact-checks!

Did you know that our work is free to read and share? Support our work to continue reading.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Support independent fact-checking in Africa.