The Lagos Command of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has called for increased collaboration and support from stakeholders to strengthen its educational programmes and improve inmate rehabilitation.
Controller of the Command, George Daramola, made this appeal on Wednesday during the matriculation ceremony of 14 inmates enrolled in the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) at the Ikoyi Medium Security Custodial Centre.
Daramola emphasized that education remains a powerful tool for national development and personal transformation, regardless of an individual’s status or circumstance.
“Education is the best legacy we can offer our citizens. It is gratifying to know that the service is fully implementing its mandate by promoting inclusivity through education,” he said.
He described the matriculation as a symbolic gesture that assures inmates they are not forgotten, but rather being prepared for reintegration into society.
“This event gives inmates a sense of belonging. It assures them that the government is committed to their rehabilitation and eventual reintegration,” Daramola stated.
He noted that only convicted inmates are eligible to enroll in the NOUN programme within correctional facilities. He also commended NOUN for its commitment to prison education, while decrying the stigma ex-inmates face after serving their sentences.
“We train inmates in various skills, yet many face rejection upon release. Society must embrace and accept them. Stigmatization only hampers reintegration,” he warned.
Daramola encouraged the new students to remain focused, reminding them that incarceration does not define their potential.
“You voluntarily enrolled in this programme, which means you are determined to succeed. Remember, being behind bars is not the end of the road. Use this time to grow, learn, and prepare for a better future,” he urged.
He also highlighted the need for greater logistical support, particularly in transporting inmates to court and providing medical supplies.
“The Federal Government has done a lot, but we still need support, especially in the areas of transportation and healthcare. We appeal to NGOs, faith-based groups, and individuals to assist,” he said.
Daramola further raised concerns about delayed trials, which contribute to overcrowding in custodial centres. He advocated for alternative sentencing such as parole, fines, probation, and restorative justice.
Deputy Controller of Corrections, Julius Ebereonwu, who oversees the Ikoyi facility, reiterated the commitment of the service to providing quality education to willing inmates.
“Today’s event may surprise some people, but we are running a full educational programme here, from primary school to university level,” he said.
He explained that with NOUN’s support, the centre now hosts its own examination and matriculation activities, eliminating the need for inmates to travel to other facilities.
Quoting Nelson Mandela, Ebereonwu said, “Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world. No one should leave this facility the same way they came in.”
He revealed that several inmates have graduated with high academic distinctions, and some are on track to achieve first-class honours.
NOUN Vice Chancellor, Prof. Femi Peters, represented by Prof. Fisayo Arowosegbe, praised the inmates for their courage, urging them to remain committed.
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“This marks the beginning of greatness. Your greatest asset is your mind. It cannot be imprisoned,” he told the new students.
Also speaking, ASC Ondache Balogun, principal of the facility’s school, disclosed that inmates are enrolled in programmes such as Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, Christian Theology, Philosophy, and Political Science.
