Religious Services and the Rehabilitation of Inmates in Correctional Centres in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Helen E. Bassey, Peter A. Essoh & Okoro S. Asangausung

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Abstract

The Correctional Centres in Akwa Ibom State face persistent challenges in effectively rehabilitating inmates, with limited structured programmes to address emotional instability, behavioural relapse and reintegration, thereby necessitating an evaluation of the role of religious services in supporting inmate transformation. This study assessed how religious services contribute to the rehabilitation of inmates in correctional centres in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Guided by Don Andrews and James Bonta’s theory of effective correctional intervention, the study adopted a descriptive survey design with a mixed-method approach. Structured questionnaire, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) were methods of data collection. Purposive and cluster sampling techniques were used with 384 inmates and correctional officers. According to the findings, 89.6% of respondents agreed that religious programmes like scripture study, prayer and worship, religious counselling, faith-based group activities and mentoring are beneficial for fostering social cohesion, emotional stability, behavioural change and spiritual renewal. Inmates who participated in religious services reported improved mental health, reduced aggression and a revitalised sense of purpose in life, while correctional officers saw improved discipline, reduced tensions and stronger interpersonal relationships. In order to improve successful rehabilitation and post-release reintegration, the study suggested that the Nigeria Correctional Service and faith-based organisations form formal partnerships. The study expands the discussion on effective inmate rehabilitation and offers helpful insights into faith-based correctional reform in Nigeria.

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