Developing a Prisoner Rehabilitation Framework for Nigerian Correctional Centres

Rehabilitation of convicted persons is a primary objective of the Nigeria Correctional Service Act 2019, yet most Nigerian correctional facilities operate without systematic rehabilitation programmes, contributing to high recidivism rates and failed reintegration. This study developed a comprehensive prisoner rehabilitation framework for Nigerian correctional centres, drawing on assessment of existing programmes at correctional centres in Abuja, Enugu, and Kano, representing the North Central, South East, and North West zones. A professional framework development methodology was employed, combining facility programme audits, structured interviews with 20 correctional officers, 10 rehabilitation specialists, and 6 civil society reintegration partners, and review of the UN Bangkok Rules, Nelson Mandela Rules, and South African DCS rehabilitation model. Programme audits showed that vocational skills training was available to fewer than 35 percent of inmates at assessed facilities, psychological counselling to fewer than 20 percent, literacy programmes to 42 percent, and formal education to fewer than 18 percent. Post-release reintegration support was provided in only 8 percent of documented discharge cases. The rehabilitation framework designed covers assessment and individual rehabilitation plan development, education and skills programming, psychological and substance dependency treatment, family reconciliation, vocational certification, and structured post-release support networks. Expert review by nine rehabilitation specialists confirmed the framework's alignment with international standards. The study recommends NCoS adoption through the Controller General's implementation directive.

Keywords: prisoner rehabilitation, correctional service, Nigeria, recidivism, reintegration