There is growing discontent among junior officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) due to the authorities’ failure to provide them with the new service uniform free of charge, as was done for their senior colleagues. These officers have also expressed concern over a directive requiring them to wear the new uniform to participate in a forthcoming promotion examination scheduled between July 1 and July 6, 2024.
Speaking anonymously to PUNCH Online, several affected officers highlighted their frustration, pointing out that in other uniformed organizations, junior officers typically receive uniforms free of charge during transitions. However, in the NCoS, this tradition has not been upheld.
According to one officer, the NCoS initiated a uniform change in 2019, initially providing free uniforms to senior ranks up to Chief Superintendents of Corrections, but subsequently ceased the distribution. Now, junior officers are being compelled to purchase the new uniform from the open market, despite earlier promises of free distribution.
Another officer lamented the timing of these directives, noting that such policies often coincide with promotion examinations. The cost burden on officers is significant, with each complete set of the new uniform requiring approximately N12,000, calculated based on the price of N4,000 per trouser length and three lengths per uniform.
Furthermore, there are allegations that some individuals acquired materials from the central store meant for uniform distribution and sold them privately, exacerbating the situation.
A circular dated June 24, 2024, outlining the timetable for the upcoming promotion examination further stipulated that eligible officers must appear in the new NCoS uniforms. This directive has intensified dissatisfaction among junior officers who feel marginalized by the uneven implementation of uniform policies within the service.
The situation underscores a broader issue of equity and transparency in the distribution of resources and benefits among NCoS personnel, highlighting the need for clearer and fairer practices moving forward.
