970 inmates running academic programmes at NOUN, says CG

No fewer than 970 inmates are running various academic programmes in the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), the Controller-General (CG) of Nigerian Correctional Service, Haliru Nababa, has said.

The CG disclosed this at the Passing-Out-Parade (POP) of the 234 Batch ‘C’ Basic recruit course at the Nigerian Correctional Service Training School, Kaduna.

Nababa, who was represented by the Deputy Controller-General (DCG), Lawal Gusau, also disclosed that as part of his achievements as the head of the service, a large number of inmates, who sat for the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and National Examinations Council (NECO) had impressive results, which proved that the custody is not as punitive as touted.

“Training and re-training of personnel have been given serious priority. No wonder all the correctional training institutions have remained engaged.

“Additional training college in Kebbi State has kicked off with the mounting of 300 DSC’s development course scheduled for February 21, 2022 and will accommodate more professional courses,” Nababa said.

While congratulating the 300 graduands of the course, he warned them to shun any act of indiscipline, as such would not be tolerated.

“May I seize this opportunity to congratulate you for your endurance, perseverance and good conduct exhibited during the training. There is zero-tolerance for indiscipline and unprofessional conduct. Any act of indiscipline, disloyalty and disobedience to constituted authority will be decisively dealt with.

“As newly trained recruits, there are established channels of communication with regards to official matters, correspondences and even expression of grievances. You are to be guided by these channels throughout your career in the service,” he added.

Advising them to distinguish themselves, uphold discipline and be professional in the discharge of their duties, the CG stressed:

“You must shun all acts of misconduct capable of jeopardising the security of the service. Your passing out is coming at a time we are consolidating on the gains of several years of serious reforms of the past administration,” he said.

The ceremony witnessed the presentation of awards to some graduands who excelled in various endeavours such as leadership; academics and selfless service during the six months training.