NANS Hails FG Over Release Of 4,000 Inmates

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has commended the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his groundbreaking humanitarian initiative that secured the release of 4,068 inmates across correctional facilities nationwide, describing it as a major step towards reforming Nigeria’s criminal justice system and advancing President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

In a statement issued by its Assistant Secretary-General, Adejuwon Olatunji Emmanuel, NANS lauded the Minister for what it termed “a display of empathy, efficiency, and reform-driven governance.”

According to the association, the initiative, funded through ₦585 million raised from private contributions, was achieved at zero cost to the Federal Government and has already restored freedom, training, and reintegration opportunities to thousands of inmates who were held due to their inability to pay fines or bail conditions.

“Through this noble action, Tunji-Ojo has restored hope to thousands of Nigerians and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to humane and reform-oriented governance,” the statement read in part.

NANS described the project as a clear demonstration of the Renewed Hope Agenda in action, commending President Tinubu for appointing leaders with vision, compassion, and administrative excellence.

“His tireless commitment to reforming the correctional system reflects the new direction of the Tinubu administration — one that values rehabilitation and human dignity over condemnation,” the students’ body said.

The association further noted that the Interior Minister’s leadership continues to inspire trust in governance and public institutions, emphasising that his approach to reform aligns with modern global practices in restorative justice.

“We sincerely appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for giving Nigeria such a visionary, proactive, and people-centred Minister. The impact of Hon. BTO’s leadership continues to resonate across all sectors, inspiring a new wave of trust in public service,” the statement added.

NANS reaffirmed its confidence in the Tinubu administration’s ongoing reform agenda and expressed optimism that similar initiatives would continue to address systemic issues across Nigeria’s justice and correctional systems.

“Indeed, Nigeria is in motion under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” the statement concluded.

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