In a significant step towards advancing inmate rehabilitation and post-release reintegration, the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of Building (NIOB) and West African Ceramics Limited (WACL), has commenced a 12-week intensive tiling training programme for 30 selected inmates at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, Abuja.
The programme was formally flagged off by the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni, who was represented by the Deputy Controller-General of Corrections, covering duties in the directorate of Inmate Training and Productivity, Nicholas Obiako.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Controller-General described the initiative as a practical demonstration of the Service’s commitment to rehabilitation, reformation, and reintegration of inmates.
He noted that vocational and entrepreneurial training remain critical components of modern correctional administration, stressing that equipping inmates with marketable skills enhances their chances of successful reintegration into society upon release.
“Rehabilitation and reintegration are central to the mandate of the Nigerian Correctional Service. Programmes such as this provide inmates with a second chance, promote self-reliance, and contribute to reducing recidivism by transforming inmates into productive members of society,” he stated.
The Controller-General commended the Nigerian Institute of Building and West African Ceramics Limited for their partnership and investment in correctional reform, while encouraging participating inmates to take full advantage of the opportunity through dedication and commitment.
Earlier, the President of the Nigerian Institute of Building, Builder Bimbo Kolade, explained that the training programme is a direct outcome of the Memorandum of Understanding between NIOB and WACL aimed at promoting technical skills development and artisan certification.
According to him, the initiative combines classroom instruction with practical hands-on training and is designed not only to impart vocational competence but also to restore hope, dignity, and confidence among participants.
“This programme goes beyond vocational training. It is about rebuilding lives, restoring dignity, and equipping inmates with certified skills that can support sustainable livelihoods after their release,” he said.
In his remarks, the Controller of Corrections, Federal Capital Territory Command, Christopher Peter Jen, highlighted the Service’s growing investment in vocational training centres across custodial facilities within the Command.
He attributed the successes recorded in inmate rehabilitation programmes to sustained collaboration between the Nigerian Correctional Service and various stakeholders, emphasizing that meaningful engagement and skills acquisition remain effective tools for crime reduction and public safety enhancement.
He called on civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations, corporate bodies, and philanthropists to partner with the Service in expanding rehabilitation opportunities for inmates.
Also speaking, the representative of West African Ceramics Limited, Dr. Emmanuel Alege, disclosed that the selected inmates will undergo intensive training covering tiling techniques, surface preparation, installation procedures, safety standards, and finishing processes.
He further explained that participants who successfully complete the programme will be assessed and awarded certificates jointly endorsed by NIOB and WACL in line with industry standards.
Dr. Alege reaffirmed the company’s commitment to skills development and social impact initiatives, adding that WACL will provide the required materials, equipment, and technical expertise throughout the training period.
The Officer-in-Charge of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, Deputy Controller of Corrections Ogundare Rasheed, assured partners of the centre’s readiness to ensure the success of the programme.
He stated that the training facility has been fully prepared to support both theoretical and practical components of the course and expressed confidence that the participants would maximise the opportunity to acquire valuable lifelong skills.
