The Federal Government has launched vocational training initiatives to empower inmates across Nigeria’s 241 correctional facilities, aiming to equip them for life after incarceration.
Upon completion of the skills acquisition training, each participant will receive a grant of N500,000.
Abiola Arogundade, the Senior Special Adviser to the President on Technical, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Education, made this announcement during a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday.
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Arogundade highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the successful reintegration of inmates into society, with a particular focus on those nearing the end of their sentences.
She revealed that the program takes inspiration from a successful model implemented in Norwegian prisons.
The Nigerian Correctional Service manages various custodial facilities, satellite centers, farm centers, open camps, institutions, training schools, and non-custodial services nationwide.
Arogundade specified that following the official launch of the pilot scheme at the Kuje Centre, which currently houses 723 inmates, only 500 inmates from each facility will be considered.
“We initiated the scheme in Kuje after conducting an audit on the inmates’ needs. Every trained individual will receive certification. We’re collaborating with global bodies to ensure skills acquired in Nigeria are recognized worldwide,” Arogundade explained.
She further elaborated, “After completing their prison term and our training, we provide them with N500,000 to establish their businesses to prevent them from becoming repeat offenders after leaving the correctional centers.”
Arogundade outlined plans to extend the intervention to all correctional facilities, emphasizing partnerships with the Bank of Industry and banks for additional support.
Vocational skills offered include fashion design, computer training, hairdressing, fish farming, soap making, and poultry farming.
The program gives priority to inmates nearing the end of their sentences, ensuring they depart with both skills and financial assistance.
Arogundade reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusivity, reflecting President Tinubu’s desire for widespread involvement.
Measures such as questionnaires are employed to understand inmates’ preferences, avoiding coercion into participation.
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