NCoS Launches Aftercare Empowerment Drive, Expands Gender-Responsive Support for Ex-Offenders

By Iyojo Ameh

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has intensified its nationwide reintegration campaign with the distribution of Aftercare starter packs to 24 carefully selected ex-offenders, urging Nigerians to end stigmatization and support reformed individuals as they rebuild their lives.

The ceremony, held at the National Headquarters in Abuja and led by the Controller General of Corrections (CGC), Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni, marked the first full implementation of the Service’s new Reformatory Enlightenment Programme (REP) a structured documentation and monitoring system that tracks inmates from training through post-release support.

In his keynote address, Nwakuche described the empowerment ceremony as “a moment that goes to the heart of what the Nigerian Correctional Service exists to achieve the restoration of dignity, the rebuilding of lives, and the strengthening of communities.”

He explained that the beneficiaries were rigorously screened based on character, emotional stability, and mastery of their trades, which include tailoring, laundry services, carpentry, welding, barbing, hairdressing, and cosmetology.

“They did not merely pass time in custody; they invested time,” he said. “They embraced discipline, acquired trades, and demonstrated the courage to choose a different kind of future.”

Of the 24 beneficiaries, four were women, reflecting the Service’s growing emphasis on gender-responsive correctional practices. The empowerment drive aligns with the ongoing 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, underscoring the Service’s commitment to supporting women and young persons who face unique challenges within the criminal justice system.

Starter packs for female ex-offenders included tools for hairdressing/cosmetology, tailoring, laundry services, metal fabrication, and various small crafts resources the CGC described as “lifelines” necessary for economic independence.

The Service noted that this focus on women is part of a broader shift to address gender specific needs through counselling, formal education, life-skills training, and targeted vocational programmes.

“Support for Reformed Individuals Is Support for National Security”

CGC Nwakuche called on government agencies, NGOs, religious institutions, and the private sector to collaborate with NCoS in strengthening reintegration efforts.

“If we truly want to reduce crime, this is one of the most effective places to invest,” he declared.
“Support for reformed individuals is support for national security.”

He also emphasized that the transformation from “Prisons” to “Corrections” under the 2019 Act was not symbolic but intended to drive true rehabilitation and reintegration.

The Controller General announced that starting in 2026, the Aftercare empowerment programme will run quarterly, expanding opportunities for more ex-offenders in line with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

He urged beneficiaries to take ownership of their tools and assured them that the Service would maintain follow-up mentorship “not to intimidate, but to support and encourage them.”

“These tools are opportunities, not decorations,” he said. “Use them to build meaningful work. Let your consistency speak louder than your past.”

The CGC delivered a strong appeal to Nigerians to stop discriminating against reformed citizens, stressing that stigmatization undermines reintegration efforts and endangers national safety.

“They are reformed and ready to contribute to the development of their fatherland. Give them a chance,” he urged.

The ceremony also featured testimonials from ex-offenders on life after release, presentation of skill-specific starter packs, Inspection of empowerment materials and recognition of the Service’s new gender-responsive corrections framework.

The Nigerian Correctional Service reaffirmed its commitment to a holistic, inclusive, and sustainable reintegration system one that strengthens communities, empowers ex-offenders, and combats gender-based vulnerabilities within the justice sector.