Nigerian Correctional Service
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Lighter Terminal Command, Apapa, Lagos, on Wednesday, 11th February 2026, commissioned a purpose-built four-classroom block at the Kirikiri Medium Security Custodial Centre, Apapa, Lagos, under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni, the Deputy Controller-General of Corrections in charge of the Inmates Training and Productivity (ITP) Directorate, Dr. Amos Kupan, PhD, mni, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for the timely and impactful intervention. He described the project as fully aligned with the Nigerian Correctional Service’s mandate of reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration, emphasizing that education and skill acquisition remain central pillars in transforming inmates into responsible and productive members of society.
Also speaking during the event, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, FNIPR, psc+, underscored the importance of sustained collaboration and synergy among government agencies. He stated that the project forms part of the broader “Customs Cares” initiative aimed at strengthening communities and supporting institutions that contribute to national development. He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to investing in education, capacity development and social infrastructure as tools for national transformation.
In his welcome address, the Lagos State Controller, Daramola George described the project as a significant milestone in advancing correctional reforms. He emphasized that modern corrections extends beyond custody to deliberately integrate education, rehabilitation and structured reintegration.
“This project reinforces our shared conviction that true correction must intentionally incorporate learning, skills development and opportunities for personal transformation,” he stated.
He expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service for the initiative, noting that the facility will significantly strengthen educational and digital literacy programmes within the custodial centre.
The newly commissioned facility comprises four fully air-conditioned classrooms, a well-equipped library stocked with academic and reference materials, and an ICT centre furnished with computers to promote digital literacy among inmates. The project is designed to support formal education, vocational training and overall personal development as part of structured reintegration programmes.
The Comptroller of Nigeria Customs Service, Lighter Terminal Command, Apapa, while making his remarks, highlighted the project as a reflection of the Service’s commitment to nation-building, noting that the “Customs Cares” initiative leverages strategic investments in human capital to benefit communities and public institutions alike.
The event also featured a drama presentation by inmates, highlighting the role of education and vocational training in personal transformation and successful reintegration into society. The performance received commendation from dignitaries and invited guests.
The Vote of Thanks was delivered by the Officer-in-Charge of the custodial centre, DCC Daniel Ogu, who expressed deep appreciation to the Nigeria Customs Service for the intervention, noting that the facility will significantly enhance educational advancement and ongoing rehabilitation efforts within the centre.
Highlights of the program include the formal unveiling of the project plaque, inspection of the classrooms, library and ICT centre.
The commissioning marks another milestone in strengthening inter-agency collaboration and advancing sustainable correctional reforms through education and human capital development.
