The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), in collaboration with the Shammies Unusual Heart Foundation, has inaugurated a National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) examination centre at the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja. This initiative, launched under the banner of “Restoring Dignity Through Education and Second Chances,” aims to equip inmates with vocational skills and educational qualifications to facilitate their successful reintegration into society upon release. Seventy inmates have already registered for the upcoming November/December 2025 NABTEB examinations, marking a significant step towards empowering incarcerated individuals through education and reducing recidivism.
The establishment of the NABTEB centre underscores the growing recognition of education’s transformative power within correctional facilities. Rather than simply confining individuals, the NCoS, with the support of organizations like Shammies Foundation, is actively investing in programs that foster personal growth and development. This approach aligns with the broader understanding that rehabilitation, rather than mere punishment, should be a central focus of the correctional system. By providing inmates with opportunities to acquire marketable skills and educational credentials, the initiative aims to break the cycle of recidivism and contribute to safer, more productive communities.
Deputy Controller-General of NCoS, Amoran Olarewaju, emphasized the importance of education in breaking down social barriers and reducing the stigma faced by former inmates. He lauded Shammies Foundation’s dedication to inmate education and advocated for increased investment in vocational training and certification programs. These programs, Olarewaju argued, are crucial for improving inmates’ employability and equipping them with the tools they need to become contributing members of society. He highlighted the practical aspects of the vocational training offered within custodial centres, noting that the hands-on experience, combined with theoretical learning, provides inmates with a well-rounded education.
The partnership between the NCoS and Shammies Foundation exemplifies the positive impact that can be achieved through collaborative efforts. The foundation’s commitment to providing resources and support has been instrumental in bringing this empowering initiative to fruition. Ambassador Saratu Abdullahi, Executive Director of Shammies Foundation, expressed her profound satisfaction in witnessing the positive impact of the program on the lives of inmates. She emphasized the foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting correctional facilities and reiterated their intention to continue providing educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals. This dedication reflects a belief in the potential for positive change within individuals, regardless of their past mistakes.
The Controller of Corrections for the FCT Command, Bosun Ajibogun, described the establishment of the NABTEB centre as a “game changer.” He expressed his deep appreciation for the project and highlighted the comprehensive support provided by Shammies Foundation, including the provision of laptops, textbooks, and other essential learning materials. Ajibogun was particularly impressed by the immediate registration of inmates for certification, recognizing the significance of this step in validating their acquired skills and knowledge. The success of the initiative in Kuje has led to plans for expansion, with the program set to be extended to the Suleja custodial facility, further broadening the reach of this transformative educational opportunity.
The inauguration of the NABTEB centre at the Kuje Custodial Centre represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to reform and rehabilitate incarcerated individuals in Nigeria. By providing access to education, vocational training, and recognized certifications, the program aims to equip inmates with the skills and qualifications needed to secure meaningful employment upon release. This initiative underscores the belief in the inherent potential of every individual, regardless of their past, and provides a pathway for inmates to transform their lives, contribute positively to society, and break free from the cycle of recidivism. The success of this program will not only benefit the individuals involved but also contribute to safer and more prosperous communities across the nation.
