The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), in collaboration with Shammies Unusual Heart Foundation, has launched a National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) Examination Centre at the Kuje facility in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The centre, which was officially launched on Thursday under the theme “Restoring Dignity Through Education and Second Chances,” has seen the Shammies Foundation register over 70 inmates to sit for the 2025 November/December NABTEB Examinations.
Speaking during the event, the Deputy Controller-General of NCoS in charge of Training and Staff Development, Amoran Olarewaju, who represented the Controller-General of NCoS, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, emphasised the transformative power of education for inmates.
He commended the Foundation for its contribution to the academic growth of inmates, saying that once they are well transformed and rehabilitated, they will be well-educated and useful to themselves, their communities, and ultimately, the nation.
“The significance of today’s event is to ensure that those who are incarcerated are not just locked up but given wide opportunities to learn and grow. Education can help them reintegrate into society as valuable members, combatting the social rejection they face.”
Olarewaju further emphasised the need for vocational training provided in custodial centres, including certifications that could enhance inmates’ employability.
“We are grateful for the Foundation’s effort in bringing such an empowering initiative to our custodial centres. Many people are unaware of the vocational training opportunities available here, but with Shammies Foundation, inmates are engaged in meaningful learning, both theoretically and practically.”
Also speaking, Ambassador Saratu Abdullahi, Executive Director of Shammi’s Unusual Heart Foundation, said that seeing the inmates’ reactions, their excitement and gratitude, is always a fulfilling experience for her.
“The joy I feel from touching lives and witnessing genuine happiness is the biggest satisfaction for me.
“This is not the first time we’ve worked with the correctional facilities, and it won’t be the last. We’ve established an ongoing relationship, and you can expect to see more from us. We are committed to this cause, and with the support of my team and the community, we will continue to provide opportunities for the inmates.”
The Controller of Corrections for the FCT Command, Bosun Ajibogun, also expressed his appreciation for the project, saying: “What Shammies Foundation has brought, technical and vocational education, is a game changer.”
Ajibogun was particularly moved by the comprehensive support provided, stating various resources such as laptops, textbooks, and teaching materials, noting that the NABTEB center will extended to Suleija facility.
He emphasised the significance of registering inmates for certification; “The impact of what has been done today cannot be overstated. The initiative to immediately register inmates for certification is a monumental step. It’s an achievement that I never expected to see in my tenure as Controller.”
