Kamarudeen Adesina, the Controller of Corrections for the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in Ogun State, announced that 74 prisoners at the Old Ibara Custodian Centre are currently taking various academic tests. Among these students, 32 are completing their Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), while 42 others are pursuing higher education, including diplomas and advanced degrees in theology.
Adesina acknowledged support from both federal and state authorities for establishing an examination center within the facility. However, he emphasized that significant obstacles remain. He pointed to aging vehicle fleets, inconsistent water supplies, and severe overcrowding across the state’s facilities, which now house over 4,000 individuals.
Raji Adisa, the officer in charge of the Ibara centre, reported that the students have maintained excellent conduct with no incidents of cheating. He highlighted that these programs are designed to reintegrate individuals into society effectively, consistent with the 2019 Nigerian Correctional Service Act.
Dr. Philip Ishola, representing the West Africa College for Christian Mission, observed that the academic engagement has led to a noticeable shift in prisoner behavior. An inmate pursuing a theology degree expressed that the opportunity to study has been vital for his personal development since his 2019 incarceration. Olayinka Odukoya, a spokesperson for the service, noted that these educational and vocational initiatives have resulted in a 70% improvement in reformation outcomes, encouraging the public to support the reintegration of former inmates.
