SIXTY-ONE inmates serving various prison terms at the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC), Kurmawa, Kano, have successfully completed the recitation and memorisation of the Holy Qur’an.
News Point Nigeria reports that the graduating inmates comprise 55 males and six females who, according to the spokesman of the Kano State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service, CSC Musbahu Lawan Kofar Nasarawa, demonstrated exceptional dedication and perseverance throughout the programme.
Kofar Nasarawa said many of the inmates had little or no prior knowledge of complete Qur’anic recitation before being admitted into the custodial centre. However, through discipline, commitment and structured religious instruction, they attained full memorisation of the Holy Qur’an.
He noted that the achievement underscored the transformative impact of faith-based rehabilitation programmes and reflected the Service’s commitment to the reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates in line with the provisions of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019.
To recognise their accomplishment, the Nigerian Correctional Service, in collaboration with a non-governmental organisation, presented each of the graduates with welfare packages comprising new clothing, mattresses, blankets and financial support aimed at encouraging continued personal development and successful reintegration into society.
The spokesman added that the Controller of Corrections, Kano State Command, Ahmed Yusuf Lakpene, commended the visionary leadership of the Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, for promoting educational, vocational and moral development programmes across custodial centres nationwide.
Lakpene said such initiatives remain essential in equipping inmates with the knowledge, skills and values needed to become productive and responsible members of society after their release.
Also speaking, an educationist, Professor Aliyu Harun, praised the command for its sustained efforts in transforming the lives of inmates through meaningful rehabilitation programmes.
According to him, the initiatives would help reposition the inmates as responsible and law-abiding citizens upon their return to society.
The Chairperson of the Kano State Prerogative of Mercy Committee, Hajiya Azumi Namadi Bebeji, reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to improving the welfare of inmates.
She expressed appreciation to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his compassion and continued support for inmates across custodial centres in Kano State.
Also speaking at the event, the custodial chaplain, DSC Mohd Alkanawy, and the Chief Imam, Imam Nasiru Abdu, urged the graduating inmates to uphold the discipline, moral values and spiritual growth they acquired during the programme.
The District Head of Kawaji and Dan Ruwatan Kano, Alhaji Ibrahim Ado Bayero, presented certificates to the 61 graduating inmates during the ceremony.