The Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, has pledged to collaborate with the Nigerian Correctional Service, NCoS, to identify inmates without legal representation and provide them with access to justice.
NBA President, Afam Osigwe made this commitment on Friday after visiting the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kuje, Abuja.
Osigwe announced that the association would also introduce a grant scheme for inmates released from correctional centres to promote social reintegration and self-reliance.
“I have decided to propose during our National Executive Council meeting in Benin next week that the NBA donate a lump sum into a fund,” Osigwe said.
“The NBA will give a specific amount as a grant to persons released from prison to help them start life or small businesses.”
He noted that many ex-inmates struggle to reintegrate into society due to a lack of financial means and community support, adding that the proposed fund would help reduce recidivism.
Osigwe further disclosed that the NBA would donate to the NCoS to support ongoing skill acquisition and educational programmes within correctional centres.
“I am impressed by the educational and vocational work here. The NBA will contribute funds to help inmates acquire materials and training tools,” he said.
The NBA president expressed satisfaction with the humane and well-kept environment of the Kuje centre, describing the visit as “eye-opening” and “inspiring.”
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He emphasised that ex-convicts deserve compassion and opportunities to rebuild their lives.
“Society must not remind them of their past or discriminate against them in jobs or social spaces. People make mistakes, but they should have the chance to move forward,” he said.
Osigwe encouraged inmates to embrace positive change and forgiveness as they prepare to return to society.
“Whatever lessons you’ve learned here, use them. Do not return to society with anger or bitterness. Commit to living as agents of change,” he advised.
The visit formed part of the NBA’s broader efforts to advance justice reform, rehabilitation, and human rights protection within Nigeria’s correctional system.
