Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, marked his 60th birthday by visiting the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja, where he initiated the registration of 100 inmates for the 2025 NABTEB and NECO examinations. This gesture aimned to demonstrate compassion and inclusive governance, emphasizing that every Nigerian deserves the opportunity to hope, learn, and rebuild, regardless of their circumstances.
According to a statement by the Service Public Relations Officer, Umar Abubakar, Abbas was represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr. Chamberlain Dunku. Out of the 100 inmates, 57 were registered for the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), while 43 were enrolled for the National Examinations Council (NECO). This initiative highlights the Federal Government’s commitment to prioritizing rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates through education, skill acquisition, and personal development.
Abbas noted that education is a powerful tool for transforming lives and preventing recidivism. He commended the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) for its efforts in reformative programs and assured that the legislature would continue to support policies promoting national security through correctional reforms. The Controller General of NCoS, Sylvester Nwakuche, represented by the Deputy Controller General, Olarewaju Amoran, praised the Speaker’s choice of venue, describing it as a beacon of hope for inmates and a reminder that correctional facilities should focus on reformation rather than neglect.
The event featured goodwill messages, songs, and prayers for the Speaker’s health and wisdom. Inmates expressed gratitude for the initiative, which they said had given them a renewed chance to pursue education and a brighter future. The presence of the Speaker’s representatives at the custodial centre was seen as a powerful demonstration of humanity and a validation of the Service’s ongoing reform agenda. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of the inmates and contribute to the country’s efforts to reform its correctional system.
