The Speaker of Nigeria's House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has initiated a program to sponsor the registration of 120 inmates from the Nigerian Correctional Service, FCT Command, for the 2026 National Business and Technical Examinations Board and National Examinations Council examinations. This move is part of activities commemorating Abbas' 61st birthday. The registration took place at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja.
According to a statement by the NCoS Public Relations Officer in the FCT, DSC Ahmed Duza, the initiative aims to ensure that incarceration does not hinder education and personal development. Abbas, represented by his Special Adviser on Humanitarian Affairs, Mr. David Igbe, emphasized the importance of providing opportunities for inmates to build a better future. He expressed appreciation for the NCoS management and staff for creating an enabling environment for inmate reformation.
The Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, Christopher Jen, representing the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, highlighted education as a critical pillar of inmates' reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration. He appreciated Abbas for celebrating with the inmates and called for employment opportunities for reformed inmates, stating they were ready to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The event also featured remarks from the representative of the Deputy Controller-General in charge of Inmates Training and Productivity, SC Igomu Augustine, who commended the initiative and support for inmates' education. Igomu noted that Abbas was taking the lead in registering inmates for NECO examinations across custodial centers.
Furthermore, the Education Desk Officer, DSC Adikwu Owoicho, disclosed that over 2,000 inmates had been registered for various educational programs in the command. He mentioned that inmates who participated in the 2025 NABTEB and NECO examinations recorded encouraging performances. This underscores the positive impact of educational initiatives within the correctional system.
The event included testimonies from beneficiary inmates, birthday tributes, special prayers, and the cutting of Abbas' 61st birthday cake. It showcased a collaborative effort between the House of Representatives and the Nigerian Correctional Service to enhance the lives of inmates through education.
The sponsorship of exams for 120 inmates reflects a broader commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration. Key stakeholders, including Abbas and NCoS officials, have emphasized the importance of education in transforming the lives of inmates and preparing them for a productive future upon release.
Key points
- The Speaker of Nigeria's House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, sponsored 120 inmates for NABTEB and NECO exams.
- The initiative aims to ensure incarceration does not hinder education and personal development.
- Over 2,000 inmates have been registered for various educational programs in the FCT Command.
