By Ibironke Ariyo
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) on Wednesday empowered 24 ex-offenders with starter packs as part of efforts to strengthen its rehabilitation and reintegration efforts across the country.
Speaking during the symbolic presentation of the starter packs in Abuja, the Controller General, NCoS, Mr Sylvester Nwakuche, congratulated the beneficiaries and reaffirmed the service’s belief in their potential.
Nwakuche described the ceremony as central to the service’s mandate of restoring dignity, rebuilding lives and strengthening communities.
He said that the service had introduced a new structured system to support ex-offenders before and after release.
He also said this year’s exercise was unique as it marked the first implementation of the Reformatory Enlightenment Programme (REP).
This, he added, was a new framework that documented inmates before training, supported them during skill acquisition and tracked their progress after discharge.
According to him, REP is not an administrative formality but a system of transparency and accountability designed to ensure continuous support and reduce recidivism.
“The 24 recipients before us have been tested, assessed and found worthy in character, emotional maturity, knowledge and practical mastery,” he said.
Nwakuche noted that the beneficiaries were trained in tailoring, laundry services, hairdressing and styling, barbing, welding and carpentry.
He, however, described the trades as pathways to self-reliance and community value, especially in a skills-driven economy.
He said that the NCoS could not achieve full reintegration alone, and called on government agencies, NGOs, faith-based organisations, private sector actors and community leaders to partner with the service.
“If we truly want to reduce crime, this is one of the most effective places to invest. Support for reformed individuals is support for national security,” he added.
The Controller-General said the transformation of the institution from “Prisons” to “Corrections” following the 2019 Act must reflect genuine rehabilitation and reintegration, not merely a change in name.
He stressed that aftercare services remained a central component of the service’s renewed direction, ensuring that no individual was released without support.
Nwakuche disclosed that beginning from 2026, the empowerment programme would become a quarterly initiative, expanding government’s reach to more ex-offenders and aligning with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He appreciated guests, partners, officers and the media for their support, while urging the beneficiaries to use the tools responsibly and productively.
“These tools are opportunities, not decorations. Use them to build meaningful work, support your families and employ others. Let your consistency speak louder than your past,” he emphasised.
The NCoS CG added that the service would monitor the items given, not to intimidate them, but to encourage growth, ensure accountability and reinforce support systems.
Speaking, the beneficiaries of the NCoS rehabilitation scheme expressed gratitude for the starter packs provided to aid their reintegration into society.
The beneficiaries said the support marked a turning point for them after completing various skill-acquisition programmes while in custody.
They noted that the equipment and tools offered through the empowerment initiative would enable them to earn a lawful income, support their families and rebuild their lives with dignity.
According to them, the gesture demonstrates the service’s commitment to ensuring that correctional programmes translate into real opportunities outside the custodial environment.
They pledged to make good use of the starter packs and serve as examples of positive reform in their respective communities.
Items given were sewing machines, water tanks, welding machines, carpentry materials, barbing tools, hair dryers, generator, washing machine for laundry, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
