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The Ogun State Controller of Corrections, Kamarudeen Adesina, announced that over 550 inmates from the state's correctional facilities have obtained various degrees and vocational training between 2024 and 2025.
Adesina shared that more than 300 inmates graduated from the National Open University of Nigeria, while 250 completed their studies at the Yewa Central College of Education.
This announcement was made on Thursday during an award ceremony for officers from different facilities organized by the African Emerging Leadership, Research and Development Organization, which took place in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State.
The controller emphasized that this accomplishment underscores the commitment of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to providing education, vocational training, and counseling to foster behavioral change and facilitate reintegration into society.
Adesina also mentioned that they are training officers to enhance their skills and knowledge for more effective service delivery.
He stated, “We have successfully graduated over 300 inmates from the National Open University of Nigeria and 250 inmates from Yewa Central College of Education, along with many others in vocational training.”
“Regarding public safety, we have ensured the protection of the public through the safe, secure, and humane custody of offenders, while respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals, and promoting non-discrimination.”
In his comments, the Convener of the African Emerging Leadership, Research and Development Organization, Dannis Efe-Khaese, commended the controller for fulfilling expectations, describing him as someone who ensures that everything is in order, and stressing that success is measured by the accomplishments of the command.
However, Efe-Khaese urged for better monitoring of released inmates, stating that while the NCoS is performing well in reforming inmates, it is lagging in the reintegration of those released back into society.
“While the reformation process is commendable, the reintegration of released inmates into society is an area that the Nigerian Correctional Service needs to address, to prevent individuals from returning to prison.”
“After an inmate is released, they should be monitored. We often see some of them outside begging; they have just been released and lack direction. Some even believe they can engage in unlawful activities and return to prison. It is crucial to warn them that they should never be seen in prison again.”
In response, the controller stressed that released inmates are closely monitored and appealed to the public for support, noting that stigmatization poses a significant challenge.
He expressed that correctional facilities cannot tackle this issue alone and require the public's assistance, particularly from the families of the inmates, to achieve their objectives.
What is the role of the Nigerian Correctional Service in inmate education?
The Nigerian Correctional Service is dedicated to providing education, vocational training, and counseling to inmates to promote behavioral change and facilitate their reintegration into society.
How many inmates graduated from the National Open University of Nigeria?
Over 300 inmates graduated from the National Open University of Nigeria during the period from 2024 to 2025.
What challenges do released inmates face?
Released inmates often face stigmatization and lack of support, which can lead to difficulties in reintegrating into society, including unemployment and the risk of reoffending.
