Lagos, Nigeria- Mental health struggles among incarcerated persons remain an often-overlooked issue in Nigeria’s correctional system. Limited access to care, stigma, and lack of awareness has long hindered rehabilitation and social reintegration efforts. The Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), in partnership with the Centre for Legal Support and Inmate Rehabilitation (CELSIR) and the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS), has unveiled the Reform360: Reinvent, Reconnect, Reintegrate programme as part of steps to drive human-centered correctional reforms.
The Reform360 program seeks to change the narrative with support from Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO). It is noteworthy that more than 100 inmates at the Male Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ikoyi have completed the Mental Health First Aider training. Certificates of participation were awarded to over 107 participants which included seven officials.
The Reform360 programme emphasizes that mental health is a cornerstone of true rehabilitation. Outcomes from beneficiaries of the programme highlight improved emotional regulation, better sleep patterns, and renewed empathy toward fellow inmates. Speaking on the initiative’s impact, a beneficiary said, “I almost lost hope, but this programme brought me back to life. I have been rebirthed”. Another beneficiary, a cell Elder said “This didn’t just teach us. it softened our hearts”.
An officer at the correctional home added, “You could see it in their eyes as some sat in silence, visibly sober, while others nodded slowly, and in deep thoughts. He added that an inmate who was once withdrawn, began to bathe, smile, and reconnect with others. Reform360 promotes a practical path to reinvent self, reconnect with opportunity, and reintegrate into society.
Reform360 contributes to a safe and inclusive society where no one is left behind by addressing mental health issues, and stigma to enable the best rehabilitation outcomes. Beyond its immediate impact, the programme aims to build lasting support systems that nurture well-being and prepare beneficiaries for successful rehabilitation and reintegration into society. This directly advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These are SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Vcare for Development Foundation will consistently leverage SEEPCO’s support to drive positive public health and socio-economic outcomes that honour human dignity.
The Reform360 program seeks to change the narrative with support from Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO). It is noteworthy that more than 100 inmates at the Male Medium Security Custodial Centre in Ikoyi have completed the Mental Health First Aider training. Certificates of participation were awarded to over 107 participants which included seven officials.
The Reform360 programme emphasizes that mental health is a cornerstone of true rehabilitation. Outcomes from beneficiaries of the programme highlight improved emotional regulation, better sleep patterns, and renewed empathy toward fellow inmates. Speaking on the initiative’s impact, a beneficiary said, “I almost lost hope, but this programme brought me back to life. I have been rebirthed”. Another beneficiary, a cell Elder said “This didn’t just teach us. it softened our hearts”.
An officer at the correctional home added, “You could see it in their eyes as some sat in silence, visibly sober, while others nodded slowly, and in deep thoughts. He added that an inmate who was once withdrawn, began to bathe, smile, and reconnect with others. Reform360 promotes a practical path to reinvent self, reconnect with opportunity, and reintegrate into society.
Reform360 contributes to a safe and inclusive society where no one is left behind by addressing mental health issues, and stigma to enable the best rehabilitation outcomes. Beyond its immediate impact, the programme aims to build lasting support systems that nurture well-being and prepare beneficiaries for successful rehabilitation and reintegration into society. This directly advances the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These are SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).
Vcare for Development Foundation will consistently leverage SEEPCO’s support to drive positive public health and socio-economic outcomes that honour human dignity.
