By Paul Joseph
The Federal Government has intensified efforts to strengthen collaboration aimed at improving the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates, as part of a broader plan to expand inclusive social protection across the country.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by Janet McDickson, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction.
According to the statement on Tuesday, the Honourable Minister, Dr. Bernard M. Doro, made this known during a courtesy visit by the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Mr. Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, and his management team to the Ministry in Abuja.
Describing the engagement as timely and strategic, Dr. Doro stressed the need to prioritise vulnerable populations, particularly inmates who are often excluded from social intervention programmes.
He reiterated that protecting the dignity and welfare of all Nigerians remains a shared national responsibility.
The Minister commended the Nigerian Correctional Service for its commitment to inmate welfare, rehabilitation, and reintegration, noting that its efforts reflect strong institutional dedication to reform.
He further revealed that the Ministry is implementing key reforms to reposition social intervention programmes for improved targeting, transparency, and measurable impact.
He noted that past challenges in reaching intended beneficiaries highlight the need for stronger collaboration with institutions such as the Correctional Service.
A major highlight of the discussion was the National Social Register, which currently captures over 19.7 million households nationwide through a community-driven, geo-referenced process.
Dr. Doro explained that integrating correctional facility data into the register would enhance inclusivity and ensure inmates and ex-inmates benefit from government programmes.
The statement added that the Minister also outlined the Ministry’s poverty graduation framework, which is designed to move beneficiaries from short-term relief to long-term economic stability.
The framework combines skills acquisition with access to productive assets, business mentorship, financial inclusion, and continuous monitoring.
He observed that previous interventions were often weakened by inadequate follow-up support, resulting in beneficiaries relapsing into poverty.
The current approach, he said, focuses on sustained support and tracking to guarantee lasting outcomes.
Dr. Doro welcomed proposals by the Comptroller-General, including vocational training, certification, agricultural initiatives, and measures to reduce re-offending. He also approved the establishment of a joint technical committee to drive implementation.
In his remarks, Mr. Nwakuche commended the Ministry’s openness to partnership, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in strengthening rehabilitation programmes and post-release support systems.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, highlighted the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing the needs of vulnerable groups.
He noted that correctional centres play a dual role in custody and rehabilitation, aligning with the Ministry’s mandate.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from both the Ministry and the Nigerian Correctional Service, including Mrs. Janet McDickson and other key stakeholders.
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