By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
A Chief Superintendent of Corrections (CSC) with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Olukemi Ibikunle, has emerged winner of the prestigious 2025 United Nations Trailblazer Award for Women Justice and Corrections Officers.
The recognition, according to a statement signed by the Service’s spokesperson, Deputy Controller of Corrections (DCC) Umar Abubakar, celebrates her outstanding contributions to correctional reforms, inmate rehabilitation, and the promotion of human rights within custodial environments.
The award, conferred by the United Nations Department of Peace Operations (UNDPO), was presented by the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Her Excellency Amina Mohammed, during a ceremony held at the UN Headquarters in New York.
The UN Trailblazer Award honors women professionals who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to justice and correctional excellence across the globe.
CSC Ibikunle’s selection followed a rigorous international vetting process that highlighted her professional distinction, integrity, and humanitarian passion.
Out of five global nominees, two were officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service — CSC Olukemi Ibikunle, recognized for her work with the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO), and Sarah Adole, nominated for her service with MINUSCO.
CSC Ibikunle eventually emerged the overall winner, earning international acclaim for her exemplary service in corrections, inmate rehabilitation, and gender inclusion.
Reacting to the news, the Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni, congratulated CSC Ibikunle for bringing pride and honor to the Service and the nation.
He described her achievement as “a testament to the professionalism, competence, and global relevance of Nigerian correctional officers,” reaffirming the Service’s commitment to excellence, gender equity, and international best practices.
CGC Nwakuche further noted that the award underscores growing global confidence in the Nigerian Correctional Service’s capacity to contribute meaningfully to peace-building and correctional development.
He urged other officers to emulate CSC Ibikunle’s dedication, discipline, and professionalism, adding that “her achievement reflects the new spirit of the Nigerian Correctional Service — a Service driven by reform, human dignity, and positive transformation.”
