Prison Education Programmes and Inmate Rehabilitation in Lagos State Correctional Centres

This study assessed the role of prison education programmes in the rehabilitation of inmates in Lagos State correctional centres, South West Nigeria. The rehabilitation mandate of correctional facilities increasingly recognises education as a key mechanism for reducing recidivism and preparing inmates for productive reintegration into society. Using a descriptive survey design, the study sampled 140 inmates enrolled in formal and non-formal education programmes across two major correctional centres in Lagos. Data were gathered through questionnaires, personal interviews, and documentary analysis of programme records. Findings revealed that educational participation was associated with improved inmate behaviour, reduced involvement in disciplinary infractions, and greater optimism about post-release prospects. Literacy and numeracy programmes were the most widely accessed, while vocational skills training such as carpentry and tailoring attracted strong interest but suffered from equipment shortages. Security protocols and limited access to instructional materials were identified as significant barriers to consistent programme delivery. Several inmates also reported that stigma from family and communities posed challenges to sustaining educational motivation. The study recommends expanding programme variety within correctional facilities, training correctional officers to support rather than obstruct educational activities, and establishing formal linkages between correctional education and TVET institutions. Post-release follow-up support for programme graduates is also advocated to sustain rehabilitation gains. Keywords: prison education, inmate rehabilitation, correctional centres, recidivism, Lagos State.