Conflict Management Strategies in Nigerian Prisons: A Study of Kuje Correctional Centre, Abuja

This study examines the conflict management strategies employed within the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory, situated in the North Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria. Correctional institutions are inherently conflict-prone environments where tensions arising from overcrowding, inmate hierarchies, gang activity, and poor welfare conditions frequently lead to violent incidents. Understanding how conflicts are managed within these settings is critical to developing effective prisoner rehabilitation and institutional peace frameworks. The study employs a qualitative case study approach, gathering data through semi-structured interviews with correctional officers, inmates, and welfare personnel, supplemented by observation of dispute resolution processes within the facility. The theoretical framework draws from the organisational conflict theory and restorative justice principles. Findings indicate that the dominant conflict management strategy in Kuje is punitive and disciplinary, with limited application of rehabilitative or restorative approaches. Mediated negotiations between inmate groups are informally facilitated by senior inmates rather than trained correctional staff, raising concerns about fairness and accountability. The study recommends training correctional officers in restorative justice practices and mediation skills, establishing inmate grievance committees with clear procedural guidelines, and reducing overcrowding through accelerated hearing of awaiting-trial inmates. Keywords: conflict management, correctional centre, Kuje, restorative justice, Nigerian prisons.