The Nigerian Correctional Service has commenced the 2026 National Examinations Council and National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies examinations for 52 inmates across custodial centres in Kano State, in a move the service described as central to its rehabilitation and reintegration mandate.

The candidates, comprising 41 males and 11 females, were drawn from various custodial facilities across the state. Musbahu Kofar Nassarawa, spokesperson for the Kano State Command, confirmed the development in a statement on Friday, noting that the exercise underscored the service's commitment to inmate rehabilitation through education.

"Their participation reflects the Service's sustained efforts to promote rehabilitation, reformation, and successful reintegration by providing inmates with access to quality education and skills development," Kofar Nassarawa said.

Kano State Controller of Corrections, Yusuf Ahmad Lakpene, monitored the commencement of the examinations at designated centres and described the exercise as another milestone in the service's correctional mandate. He urged the candidates to conduct themselves with discipline and integrity throughout the process.

Ahmad Lakpene maintained that education remains one of the most effective instruments for transforming lives, reducing recidivism, and preparing inmates for productive reintegration into society upon completing their custodial terms.

He also commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for sponsoring the registration fees of inmate candidates, noting that the gesture extended educational opportunities to individuals in custodial facilities.

"The intervention demonstrates the state government's commitment to inclusive education and human capital development, extending educational opportunities to persons in custodial facilities," the controller said.

Ahmad Lakpene reaffirmed the Nigerian Correctional Service's commitment to expanding educational programmes across custodial centres as part of a broader strategy to encourage learning, personal development and lasting behavioural change among inmates.