According to the Service’s Public Relations Officer, Abubakar Umar, the NCoS Act of 2019 provides that each state should establish a borstal institution to serve as a rehabilitation centre for youths who should not be kept in adult correctional facilities.
He explained that these institutions are designed to provide protective custody, education, and skills training for children in conflict with the law, with the ultimate goal of preparing them for successful reintegration into society.
Currently, borstal institutions are operational in Kaduna, Kwara, Ogun, and Enugu states, as well as in Gwako, Gwagwalada, within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Umar noted that most of the inmates are of secondary school age and are enrolled in formal classes, preparing for public examinations such as WAEC, NECO, and JAMB.
“We identify the root causes of their antisocial behaviour and provide corrective training to guide them towards better conduct. Many of them excel in their studies, achieving outstanding results in national examinations,” Umar said.
He recalled that the Controller-General of the Service, Sylverster Nwakuche, had recently engaged the JAMB Registrar to strengthen collaboration in supporting the educational advancement of young offenders. Umar also highlighted success stories, including a former Kaduna borstal inmate who went on to become a medical doctor and returned to inspire current students.
According to him, the Controller-General has revitalized borstal institutions nationwide by improving facilities and ensuring the availability of resources needed for effective training. He also praised the dedication of teachers and staff, adding that parents often acknowledge the positive transformation of their children.
“Many of them leave the institutions and perform excellently in higher education because of the strong foundation they received. Most of them are reformed by the time they complete their stay,” he said.
Umar assured the public that the institutions are living up to their mandate of rehabilitating and reforming young offenders, equipping them for a better future.