The management of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has paid a courtesy and advocacy visit to the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) headquarters in Abuja, aimed at strengthening their partnership and promoting access to quality tertiary education for personnel of the Service.
The NOUN delegation, led by Professor Olugbenga Ojo on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, was warmly received by the Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni, and other senior officials of the Service. Discussions during the visit focused on encouraging NCoS staff to enroll in NOUN’s flexible academic programs, particularly those offered through the study centre located within the Correctional Service headquarters.
In his welcome address, the Controller General lauded NOUN’s ongoing contributions to education within the correctional system, noting the institution’s pivotal role in offering academic opportunities to both inmates and staff over the years.
Professor Ojo reiterated the importance of continuous education, especially for professionals in the security sector. He noted that NOUN’s technology-driven open and distance learning model allows personnel to pursue academic advancement without hindering their job responsibilities.
The engagement also featured a staff lecture session, where Deputy Controller General of Corrections in charge of Human Resources, Dr. Ado Sale, mni, who represented the CG, underscored the importance of acquiring additional qualifications for career development. He said the Service supports any initiative that equips its workforce for greater professional efficiency.
On his part, DCG Olarewaju Amoran of the Training and Staff Development Directorate emphasized the long-term impact of distance learning, encouraging personnel to embrace opportunities for self-improvement and intellectual growth.
Also speaking during the session, Mrs. Modupe Adesina, National Coordinator of NOUN’s Special Study Centre Unit (SSCU), highlighted the flexibility and personalized nature of NOUN’s academic structure. She encouraged staff to seize the opportunity to enroll, noting that the university's mode of learning aligns well with the demands of working professionals.
The visit ended with an interactive session and immediate admission for interested staff, as part of efforts to encourage enrollment and raise awareness about NOUN programmes within the Service.
The Nigerian Correctional Service reaffirmed its commitment to creating a learning-friendly environment for both staff and inmates, in line with its mission to promote rehabilitation, reintegration, and institutional growth through education.
