By Oluwatoyin Adegoke
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has matriculated 58 inmates of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Ogun State Command, in a renewed push to promote rehabilitation and reintegration through education.
The university conducted the matriculation ceremony at the Ibara Custodial Centre, reinforcing the growing impact of open and distance learning in expanding access to education for underserved populations.
The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Uduma Oji Uduma, described the exercise as a turning point for the inmates, stressing that education remains a powerful instrument for personal transformation and societal reintegration.
He reiterated that NOUN was established to remove barriers to education, extending opportunities to workers, rural dwellers and inmates in correctional facilities.
Professor Uduma urged the new students to remain disciplined and committed to their studies, noting that open and distance learning continues to shape the future of global education.
He disclosed that the institution matriculated over 25,000 students nationwide in the 2026 academic session across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
The Ogun State Controller of Corrections, Mr Abioye Adesina described the initiative as a clear demonstration of reform within the correctional system.
Mr Adesina stated that the service has shifted from a punitive approach to a rehabilitative model, where education plays a vital role in reducing recidivism and preparing inmates for life after incarceration.
He urged the inmates to take full advantage of the opportunity, noting that many outside correctional facilities lack access to such privileges.
The Ogun State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwasina Ogungbade (SAN) commended the programme, describing it as a strategic intervention in the justice sector.
Justice Ogungbade maintained that education remains central to correctional reforms, as it enhances reintegration and reduces the chances of re-offending.
In a lecture titled “Preparing for Life after Incarceration: Beyond the Bars to Sustainability,” Mr Abdulhakeem Ayoola emphasised the need for early reintegration planning.
Mr Ayoola identified stigma, unemployment and psychological challenges as key barriers facing inmates after release.
Edited by Maxwell Oyekunle
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