A Feasibility Study of a Socially Inclusive Work-and-Earn Program in Nigerian Correctional Centre

Correctional rehabilitation increasingly emphasises human dignity, empowerment and socialreintegration rather than punishment. This study explores whether a structured Work and Earnprogram can be implemented at Agodi Correctional Centre in Oyo State, Nigeria. Under thisprogramme, inmates would receive accredited vocational training and earn modest wages, withthe goals of improving their livelihood prospects and promoting equitable access to rehabilitation.A secondary qualitative case study was conducted using policy documents, institutional reportsand international models such as the United States Federal Prison Industries and South Africa’sCorrectional Work Programme. International evidence shows that participation in correctionaleducation reduces recidivism by approximately 13 percentage points and increases post-releaseemployment by roughly 13 per cent. Work-release programmes have also been shown to reducenew arrests by 8–10 per cent in the three years following release. Using thematic analysis, thestudy assessed institutional readiness, anticipated benefits, and potential risks from both feasibilityand equity perspectives. Findings indicate that the Agodi Centre has physical space, underutilisedvocational facilities, and inmate interest, yet faces underfunding, weak infrastructure, andinconsistent policy enforcement. Anticipated benefits include reduced idleness, improveddiscipline, certified skills acquisition, and modest earnings that could support inmates' dependents.Risks relate to inequitable access for women, persons with disabilities and indigent inmates, aswell as security and sustainability concerns. The study concludes that a Work and Earn programmecould transform the Agodi Centre into a hub of human capital development if implemented throughequity-driven policies, partnerships with vocational institutions, and phased deployment tosafeguard vulnerable groups.