The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has presented degree certificates to six inmates of the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja, in a move highlighting the power of education as a tool for rehabilitation.
Speaking at the ceremony in Abuja, the Controller-General of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Mr Sylvester Nwakuche, praised the graduates for their resilience and commitment to self-improvement despite being in custody. He said their achievement showed that incarceration does not mark the end of personal growth or ambition.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the NCoS Command Public Relations Officer, Samson Duza, the inmates completed various NOUN programmes while serving their sentences. Two of the graduates earned Master’s degrees in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, while four obtained Bachelor’s degrees in Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution, Political Science, Criminology, and Security Studies.
Represented at the event by the Deputy Controller-General, Dr Amos Kupan, Nwakuche stressed that education builds capacity and prepares inmates for meaningful reintegration into society. He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to expanding educational and vocational opportunities within custodial centres.
The Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, Christopher Jen, congratulated the graduates and urged them to be worthy ambassadors of the Kuje Custodial Centre, encouraging them to pursue further education and use their qualifications to rebuild their lives after release.
Representing the NOUN Vice-Chancellor, the Director of the NOUN Special Study Centre, Dr Francis Enobore, described the initiative as a “pathway of hope,” noting that the university’s open and distance learning model makes education accessible even to the most marginalised.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Abba Kyari expressed gratitude to the NCoS and NOUN management, saying the opportunity to learn restored their sense of purpose and ensured their years in custody were not wasted.
The event also featured counselling sessions on reintegration and skill development, as the graduates pledged to contribute positively to society upon their release.
