Abuja: The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has awarded Trade Test and National Skills Qualification Certificates to skilled inmates at the FCT Custodial Centres. The certificates were presented during an exhibition held at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja, showcasing the products created by inmates through various vocational and skills acquisition programs.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event, themed ‘Reforming Lives Through Skills,’ highlighted the creativity and transformation of inmates participating in the service’s Reformation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration (RRR) programs. The Controller-General of Corrections (CGC), Sylvester Nwakuche, noted that the certificates symbolize more than academic achievement, representing transformation, hope, and second chances for the inmates.
Nwakuche, represented by Deputy Controller-General Nicholas Obiako, emphasized that the skills acquired by inmates were crucial for their rehabilitation and reintegration into society. He identified trades such as carpentry, tailoring, welding, barbing, and shoemaking as potential economic opportunities for the inmates once they are released. Nwakuche stressed the importance of rehabilitating the mind alongside technical skills, advocating for comprehensive support systems, including counseling and family engagement, to ensure successful reintegration.
The CGC urged stakeholders to facilitate actual economic opportunities for the inmates post-release, emphasizing that certification should serve as a bridge to economic reintegration. He warned that without means to practice their skills, inmates risk frustration and potential reoffending. He called for stronger post-release support involving government, private sector organizations, and communities.
Christopher Jen, the Controller of Corrections for the FCT Command, described the empowerment programs established across three formations, including Kuje Custodial Centre, Suleja Custodial Centre, and Dukpa Farm Centre. He detailed the diverse training offered, ranging from barbing and bag making to fishery and poultry production, highlighting that over 200 inmates have been trained in fishery and 118 in poultry production at Kuje.
Jen also mentioned efforts to support former inmates, with 25 individuals recently receiving starter packs from the Luchi Foundation and Hope Behind Bars to aid their reintegration. He emphasized that sustained economic empowerment could help mitigate the stigma faced by former inmates.
Mr. Tiza Shaaka, Director of Skills Development and Certification at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, praised the certification’s role in improving professionalism and employability among Nigerian artisans. He explained that the Trade Test Certificate of Competence provides a recognized standard for vocational assessment, enhancing access to employment and financial opportunities for certified artisans.
Inmate Chiwendu Hart, speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, highlighted the program’s significance in tackling recidivism. He shared his own experience of undergoing poultry training and pursuing higher education while in custody. Hart encouraged other inmates to remain hopeful and committed to using their skills for positive societal contributions.
Additionally, a former inmate, Chinedu Eze, presented Impactful Leadership Awards to senior correctional officials in recognition of their contributions to educational and rehabilitation initiatives. The event, featuring products and works by inmates, underscored the correctional service’s focus on preparing inmates for self-reliance and productive reintegration into society, with attendance from various ministries, development partners, and Non-Profit Organizations.