Customs donates modern classroom complex to enhance inmate education in Kirikiri
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Lighter Terminal Command, Apapa, Lagos, has commissioned a purpose-built four-classroom block at the Kirikiri Medium Security Custodial Centre, Apapa, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative.
The facility was inaugurated on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, in a move aimed at strengthening inmate education, rehabilitation and reintegration within the correctional system.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, the Deputy Controller-General of Corrections in charge of the Inmates Training and Productivity Directorate, Dr. Amos Kupan, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for what he described as a timely and impactful intervention.
According to him, the project aligns fully with the mandate of the Nigerian Correctional Service to promote reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration, noting that education and skill acquisition remain critical to transforming inmates into responsible and productive members of society.
Also speaking at the event, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, underscored the importance of sustained collaboration among government agencies. He explained that the project forms part of the broader “Customs Cares” initiative designed to strengthen communities and support institutions contributing to national development.
Adeniyi 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 of Corrections, Daramola George, described the project as a significant milestone in advancing correctional reforms, stressing that modern correctional practice goes beyond custody to deliberately integrate education, rehabilitation and structured reintegration.
He noted that the facility would significantly strengthen educational and digital literacy programmes within the custodial centre.
The newly commissioned complex 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 expected to support formal education, vocational training and overall personal development as part of structured reintegration programmes.
Speaking further, the Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Lighter Terminal Command, Apapa, described the project as a reflection of the Service’s commitment to nation-building, adding that the “Customs Cares” initiative leverages strategic investments in human capital to benefit communities and public institutions.
The event featured a drama presentation by inmates highlighting the role of education and vocational training in personal transformation and successful reintegration into society, drawing commendation from dignitaries and guests.
In his vote of thanks, the Officer-in-Charge of the custodial centre, DCC Daniel Ogu, expressed appreciation to the Nigeria Customs Service for the intervention, noting that the new facility would enhance educational advancement and ongoing rehabilitation efforts within the centre.
Highlights of the ceremony included the formal unveiling of the project plaque and 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.
