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(Inmates Begin University. Photo Credit: Vanguard News)
52 inmates at the Old Abeokuta Custodial Centre in Ibara, Ogun State, have enrolled in two tertiary institutions.
26 joined the National Open University of Nigeria and the other 26 joined the West African College for Christian Missions.
The matriculation ceremony took place on Friday and aims to prepare them for life after prison.
Ogun State Controller of Corrections Abiyoye Kamoru Adesina said it gives the inmates hope and a way back into society.
He said the centre needs more support from government, philanthropists and NGOs.
The state education commissioner, Abayomi Arigbabu, said the government sponsored 14 eligible inmates to sit for the 2026 Basic Education Certificate Examination.
He urged the new students to work hard and not let their situation stop them from chasing their dreams.
Pastor Hezekiah Olujobi, who spent six years in detention himself, told the inmates not to let prison walls limit their future.