In a powerful demonstration of redemption and resilience, six inmates at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja have been awarded university degrees by the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). This landmark achievement marks a significant milestone for educational and rehabilitation programmes within the Nigerian prison system.
A Celebration of Academic Achievement Behind Bars
The Controller-General of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, celebrated the inmates' success, confirming they completed their rigorous academic programmes while still in custody. He described their graduation as concrete proof that purposeful education has the power to reform lives and effectively prepare individuals for a positive return to society.
According to details provided by NCoS spokesperson Samson Duza, the academic accomplishments are impressive. Two of the inmates earned master's degrees in peace studies and conflict resolution. The other four secured bachelor's degrees across critical disciplines including peace studies and conflict resolution, political science, criminology, and security studies.
Leadership Hails Education as a Tool for Reform
Represented at the ceremony by Deputy Controller-General Amos Kupan, CG Nwakuche emphasized a fundamental principle: incarceration should not mean the end of personal growth and development. He reiterated the service's unwavering commitment to providing transformative educational and skill-building opportunities for inmates nationwide.
The Controller of Corrections for the FCT Command, Christopher Jen, personally congratulated the graduates. He urged them to view their hard-earned qualifications as essential tools for driving positive change in their own lives and their communities following their release.
A Partnership That Offers a "Pathway of Hope"
Francis Enobore, the Director of NOUN's Special Study Centre, highlighted the institution's long-standing and fruitful partnership with the correctional service. He movingly described this collaboration as a "pathway of hope," noting that the process of learning restores a sense of dignity and purpose to individuals.
Speaking on behalf of his fellow graduates, Abba Kyari expressed profound gratitude to both NOUN and the NCoS for the life-changing opportunity. He stated that the chance to study had fundamentally renewed their sense of direction and hope for the future.
The graduation ceremony, held on December 16, 2025, went beyond mere celebration. It featured practical counselling sessions focused on crucial post-release challenges, including:
- Successful re-entry into society
- Ongoing skills development
- Sustainable community reintegration
Empowered by their new knowledge, the graduates collectively pledged to become meaningful, contributing members of society upon their release, turning their past into a foundation for a better future.
