Inmates at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Ikoyi, have successfully completed vocational training in carpentry and received Trade Test Certificates from the Federal Ministry of Employment, Labour and Productivity, according to a statement released by the Public Relations Unit of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Lagos State Command.
The certification programme was implemented in collaboration with the Centre for Legal Support and Inmates Rehabilitation (CELSIR), led by Barrister Joke Aladesanmi, alongside other partner organisations committed to enhancing inmate development.
As part of their practical assessment—and in a bid to contribute to community welfare—the inmates produced 200 tables and chairs, which were donated to indigent children in the Makoko community. The high-quality furniture items were commended by officials and observers, further highlighting the value of ongoing skill acquisition programmes within the correctional system.
The presentation ceremony was attended by the Controller of Corrections, Lagos State Command, Mr. Daramola George, and the Officer-in-Charge of Ikoyi Custodial Centre, DCC Ebereonwu Julius Ogueri, among other dignitaries.
Speaking during the event, the Controller applauded the inmates for embracing rehabilitation and encouraged them to deploy their newly acquired skills toward lawful and productive ventures after release.
He emphasized that society was offering them “a second chance at life,” urging them to pursue discipline, responsibility, and continuous personal development. He added that the acquired vocational skills could enable them to become future employers of labour.
The initiative aligns with the wider reforms championed by the Controller-General of Corrections, Mr. Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni, who recently visited Lagos for an Inmates’ Exhibition at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri. The exhibition showcased a wide array of inmate-produced crafts, reaffirming the Service’s commitment to empowering inmates through skill acquisition.
The Public Relations Unit stated that the NCoS remains dedicated to its Reformation, Rehabilitation, and Reintegration (R-R-R) mandate and continues to equip inmates with employable skills that support successful reintegration into society.
The Service also appealed to members of the public to support ex-offenders by patronizing their products, refraining from stigmatization, and partnering with the NCoS to provide training materials and equipment. Community support, it noted, is vital to improving rehabilitation outcomes and building safer societies.
