Determinants of Inmates’ Vocational Programme Suitability in Selected Nigerian Correctional Centres

Abstract

Vocational programmes are strategies adopted by the Nigeria Correctional Service to reform the inmates’ anti-social behaviours so as to prepare them for post-incarceration life. Studies have reported various programmes that are available to the inmates. However, there is scarce knowledge on the determinants of suitability for these programmes. This study investigated the determinants of suitability for these programmes in selected correctional centres in Nigeria. The study was guided by abolitionist philosophy which stressed that prisons should be replaced with the alternatives if they could not meet the inmates’ needs. Medium Security Custodial Centres in Agodi and Ilesha were purposively selected as case studies. Data were obtained through semi-structured interviews and official records in the centres. The mixed methods produced qualitative and quantitative data which were statistically and thematically analyzed. The findings show uneven distribution of inmates’ populations and vocational programmes in the centres. The vocational programmes found in the centres include: salon, tailoring, shoemaking, carpentry, laudry services, electrical works, welding, furniture works, plumbing, stove fabrication, and bakery. While many factors determined the inmates’ suitability for the programmes, the status of convict was the most pronounced. Given this, it was unrealistic to reform all imates through vocational programmes in the centres.