The Federal Capital Territory Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service is seeking to partner with Yakubu Gowon University to expand educational and vocational opportunities for inmates.
This was the focus of a courtesy visit on Tuesday by the Controller of Corrections for FCT, Christopher Jen, to the university’s Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Adamu Matthew.
According to a statement signed by the command spokesperson, Adamu Duza, on Wednesday, Jen emphasised the importance of engaging inmates in meaningful training and academic programs as part of their rehabilitation.
“We want to ensure that our inmates are kept busy and acquire skills that will enable us to sleep with our two eyes closed when they are discharged,” Jen said.
He proposed that the university extend its Open and Distance Learning programmes into custodial centres, allowing inmates to access formal education while serving their sentences.
Prof. Matthew, who recently assumed the role of Acting Vice Chancellor, welcomed the initiative and expressed strong support for collaboration with the Correctional Service.
Responding to the proposal, Prof. Matthew promised to take immediate steps towards implementation.
“I will direct the Director of the Open Distance Learning Centre to consider establishing a learning centre in your facility to bridge the education gap,” he assured, as contained in the statement.
The statement noted that the new programme is expected to complement existing efforts by the National Open University of Nigeria, which already offers educational support to inmates.
In addition to education, the Vice Chancellor offered the university’s support in reshaping public perception around incarceration and rehabilitation.
“We are in a position to enlighten our people, especially students, on the importance of accepting and supporting rehabilitated individuals, and we would be happy to lead this effort,” he said.
Recall on August 7, PUNCH Online reported, the Nigerian Correctional Service and Shammies Unusual Heart Foundation launched a NABTEB Examination Centre at Kuje Custodial Centre, registering 70 inmates for the 2025 November/December exams.
The project, themed “Restoring Dignity Through Education and Second Chances,” focuses on rehabilitating inmates through education and vocational training.
Deputy Controller-General Amoran Olarewaju said, “Education can help inmates reintegrate into society as valuable members.”
Shammies Foundation’s Executive Director, Saratu Abdullahi, expressed joy in supporting inmates and pledged ongoing commitment. FCT Controller of Corrections, Bosun Ajibogun, called the initiative a “game changer” and highlighted plans to expand the centre to Suleja, describing inmate certification as a monumental achievement.
