The graduands, dressed in academic gowns during the ceremony, were trained by computer professionals through a partnership between the correctional facility and Prisons Rehabilitation and Law Abiding Organisation International.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Controller of Corrections in charge of the Old Abeokuta Custodial Centre, DCC Bamidele Oshin, explained that the initiative aligns with the objectives of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, which places strong emphasis on the reformation and rehabilitation of inmates through education and skill acquisition. He noted that the policy direction has continued to receive support from the Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Haliru Nababa.
According to Mr. Oshin, the correctional study centre operates three major categories of educational programmes: Academic, Vocational, and Religious education.
He further revealed that about 76 inmates of the Old Abeokuta Custodial Centre are currently enrolled in various undergraduate programmes under the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), with the study centre situated within the custodial facility. He stated that the computer training would greatly assist the inmates in adapting to the computer-based learning system of NOUN.
Commending PRALARG International for its partnership and commitment to inmate rehabilitation, Mr. Oshin urged the graduands to become role models and positive ambassadors after completing their sentences.
“You are not going to die here. I believe you all have a future, and this place will not limit your destiny,” he said.
“It does not matter the length of your sentence; this is only the beginning of a greater future. Some of you are already enrolled in the National Open University, and this computer training will support your academic journey. Do not give up. I encourage you to become role models and agents of positive change.”
Mr. Oshin also noted that inmates who demonstrate good conduct and actively engage in academic, religious, or vocational education during their incarceration may qualify for amnesty opportunities.
In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Prisons Rehabilitation and Law Abiding Organisation International, Akinwumi Olayemi, stated that computer literacy has become an essential skill in the modern world, adding that no individual can effectively function in today’s society without basic computer knowledge.
Represented at the event by Mr. Olusuyi Alonge, the West African Regional/National Coordinator of PRALARG International, Olayemi disclosed that another set of inmates had benefitted from a similar training programme in 2020, which inspired the organisation to facilitate the current edition.
He commended the Controller of Corrections, Ogun State Command, Abdul-Rasheed Alimi, and the Officer-in-Charge of the Old Abeokuta Custodial Centre, DCC Bamidele Oshin, among others, for their cooperation and support in ensuring the success of the programme.
Earlier in his address, the Assistant Superintendent of Corrections and Social Welfare/Education Desk Officer at the Ibara Custodial Centre, Awesu Abdulhakeem, stated that the graduands had undergone rigorous practical training and were now capable of effectively operating computers and handling desktop publishing tasks.
He reiterated that the correctional centre remains committed to promoting education among inmates through academic, vocational, and religious programmes aimed at rehabilitation and societal reintegration.
Recall that earlier this month, 16 inmates of the custodial centre also graduated in Qur’anic Studies, further highlighting the facility’s commitment to holistic inmate development.
Other highlights of the event included the presentation of plaques to officials of the Prisons Rehabilitation and Law Abiding Organisation International and certificates to the graduands.
The inmates also staged a drama performance emphasising the importance of education in society, which received applause from guests and correctional officers.