The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Tajudeen Abbas, celebrated his 60th birthday at the Kuje Custodial Centre in Abuja, where he launched the registration of 100 inmates for the 2025 NABTEB and NECO examinations.
Addressing participants at the event, Abbas explained that his decision to mark the occasion with inmates was a way of showing compassion and reinforcing the principle of inclusive governance. He stressed that every Nigerian, regardless of their situation, deserves a chance to hope, learn, and rebuild.
According to a statement by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) Public Relations Officer, Umar Abubakar, Abbas was represented by his Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr. Chamberlain Dunku. Out of the 100 inmates, 57 were registered for the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), while 43 were enrolled for the National Examinations Council (NECO).
The Speaker noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates through education, skills training, and personal development. He emphasized that education remains a powerful tool for transforming lives and reducing repeat offenses.
Abbas also commended the NCoS for its reform programmes and assured that the National Assembly would continue to back policies that strengthen national security through correctional reforms.
In his goodwill message, the Controller General of NCoS, Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche, represented by Deputy Controller General (DCG) of Training and Staff Development, Mr. Olarewaju Amoran, praised the Speaker’s choice of venue, describing it as a symbol of hope for inmates.
Similarly, the Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, Mr. Peter Gen, described the occasion as historic and symbolic, noting that the presence of the Speaker’s aides and staff reinforced the Service’s reform agenda.
The event featured songs, prayers, and messages of goodwill, while inmates expressed heartfelt appreciation, describing the gesture as a renewed chance to embrace education and envision a brighter future.