Vocational Skills Team Wins Maiden Inmates’ Debate at Kuje Custodial Centre

The Nigerian Correctional Service has intensified efforts to promote inmates’ rehabilitation and reintegration, with the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, Abuja, organising its maiden debate competition on education and vocational skills.

The competition, held on Thursday, October 15, 2026, featured 10 inmates who debated the importance of formal education and vocational training in preparing them for life after incarceration.

While Team A argued for education, Team B made the case for vocational skills. Following the contest, the panel of judges declared Team B the winner.

Speaking at the event, the Officer-in-Charge of the centre, Assistant Controller of Corrections Adekunmi Sunday, said the initiative was designed to develop inmates’ intellectual abilities, build their confidence and encourage constructive engagement.

He said the competition was part of efforts to transform the custodial centre into an environment where learning and personal development complement correctional duties.

“Custody without training is punishment; custody with training is correction,” Sunday said.

He stressed that education and vocational training were essential to preparing inmates for successful reintegration into society, adding that he expected every inmate under his supervision to acquire at least one of the two.

The Controller of Corrections, Federal Capital Territory Command, Christopher Peter Jen, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to rehabilitation, expressing confidence that inmates could attain positions of responsibility in society if given the necessary support and opportunities.

“An inmate today can be a Governor or any high-ranking individual in the society tomorrow, if properly reformed,” Jen said.

He disclosed that the command was working with relevant stakeholders and support organisations to create employment opportunities for inmates after their release.

Jen also appreciated the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, for his leadership and the opportunity to contribute to inmate reformation and rehabilitation across the FCT Command.

The competition attracted goodwill messages from partner organisations and other stakeholders, who praised the correctional service for promoting education, skills acquisition and rehabilitation among inmates.

In a vote of thanks delivered on behalf of the Officer-in-Charge by Superintendent of Corrections Yusuf Muye, the centre appreciated the FCT Controller of Corrections, partner organisations, staff and inmates for their contributions to the event’s success.

The centre also pledged to make the debate competition a regular feature of its rehabilitation activities.

The initiative highlights the role of intellectual engagement and practical skills development in preparing inmates for life beyond custodial facilities, with the aim of improving their chances of securing employment and contributing meaningfully to society after their release.