NCoS: 1,000 Inmates Pursuing University Degrees, Six Studying for PhDs
The Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS) has revealed that over 1,000 inmates in its custody are currently pursuing university degrees, with six of them advancing towards PhD qualifications.
NCoS spokesperson, Umar Abubakar, announced this doing a briefing on Thursday in Abuja.
Abubakar highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare and rehabilitation of inmates, emphasizing that the education initiative is part of a broader effort to reform prisoners and aid their reintegration into society.
“We are committed to changing the psyche and behavior of those in our custody, helping them transition back into the community as better individuals,” he stated.
The NCoS spokesperson disclosed that the inmates’ educational achievements include 1,000 undergraduates, 282 diploma and master’s students, and six PhD candidates.
“Three of our PhD students are already in the process of writing their theses,” Abubakar added, underscoring the service’s dedication to fostering a conducive environment for inmate education.
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This announcement comes on the heels of a viral video showing inmates in Cross River State complaining about poor feeding. In response, Abubakar noted that the Federal Government had increased the feeding allowance for prisoners by 50%, acknowledging the rising cost of food.
“The recent feeding allowance increment is just the first phase of our review,” Abubakar explained, assuring the public that the NCoS is taking steps to address the concerns raised in the viral video and continue its mandate of reformation and rehabilitation.
