Fifty-two inmates at the Old Abeokuta Custodial Centre in Ibara, Ogun State, have taken a significant step towards rebuilding their lives by matriculating into two tertiary institutions. The inmates were admitted into the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and the West African College for Christian Missions during a joint matriculation ceremony held on Friday.

Of the 52 inmates, 26 secured admission into NOUN, while the remaining 26 enrolled at the West African College for Christian Missions. The initiative aims to provide educational opportunities for inmates, equipping them with relevant knowledge and preparing them for successful reintegration into society after their release.

The ceremony was held under the theme, “Unlocking Potentials for Life After Incarceration Through Education: Resilience and Reintegration.”

The Controller of Corrections in Ogun State, Abiyoye Kamoru Adesina, described the matriculation as a symbol of hope, personal development, rehabilitation, and reintegration. Adesina stated that the program aligns with the Correctional Service Act 2019, which prioritizes the reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates into society.

However, he expressed concern over the challenges facing the correctional center in providing adequate educational opportunities and skills acquisition programs. He called on the government, philanthropists, non-governmental organizations, and other stakeholders to support the facility in carrying out its responsibilities. “We have a lot of challenges, but we thank God. That is the main reason why I used to tell the public that government alone cannot do everything for us. We need help from philanthropists, NGOs and other stakeholders,” he said.

The corrections controller also appealed for increased government support to strengthen rehabilitation programs and enable inmates to acquire the education and skills needed to contribute positively to society. He urged the newly admitted students to take their studies seriously and make the most of the opportunity to prepare for life beyond incarceration.

The Ogun State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Abayomi Arigbabu, described the matriculation as an important step towards transformation and a demonstration that education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances. Arigbabu, who was represented by a ministry director, Abosede Odulesi, disclosed that the state government sponsored 14 eligible inmates to sit for the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE).

He stated that the initiative forms part of efforts to promote inclusive education in line with Sustainable Development Goal 4, which focuses on ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all. The commissioner encouraged the matriculating inmates to approach their studies with discipline, dedication, and a commitment to academic excellence.

He stressed that education goes beyond obtaining certificates, explaining that it also provides the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for responsible living and productive participation in society. Arigbabu also encouraged other inmates to pursue educational qualifications and vocational training, warning them not to allow their present circumstances to destroy their hopes for the future.

The Founder and Executive Director of the Centre for Justice, Mercy and Reconciliation (CJMR), Pastor Hezekiah Olujobi, urged the inmates not to allow their confinement to limit their ambitions. Olujobi, who shared his personal experience of spending six years in detention at Agodi Prison, Ibadan, between 1987 and 1993, encouraged the inmates to see education as a pathway to a better future.

Drawing from his experience, he urged them to remain focused on their studies and allow the learning process to influence their character and outlook on life. He emphasized the importance of taking advantage of educational opportunities, noting that circumstances behind correctional center walls should not prevent anyone from pursuing personal growth. His message reinforced the importance of education as a tool for rehabilitation, empowerment, and successful reintegration.

Earlier, the Olu of Imasayi, Oba Lukman Kuoye, delivered the keynote address, urging the inmates to make education a priority despite their present circumstances. The traditional ruler encouraged them to view their time at the correctional center as an opportunity for personal development rather than a reason to abandon their dreams.

The joint matriculation into NOUN and the West African College for Christian Missions highlights the role of education in correctional rehabilitation and efforts to prepare inmates for life after custody. With sustained support from government agencies, educational institutions, and other stakeholders, such initiatives could help more inmates acquire qualifications, develop practical skills, and improve their prospects of reintegrating into society.