Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF), in partnership with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) and the Centre for Legal Support and Inmate Rehabilitation (CELSIR), has rolled out the Reform360 Programme at the Lagos Female Custodial Facility to promote the rehabilitation and reintegration of incarcerated women.
The programme, supported by Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Co. Ltd. (SEEPCO), delivers a comprehensive empowerment package that includes mental health first aid, legal education on gender-based violence, vocational skills acquisition, entrepreneurship development and access to formal education.
VCDF explained that Reform360 was created to help women in custody rebuild self-worth, regain emotional stability and develop practical skills needed for life after incarceration. The initiative places emphasis on personal transformation, economic independence and long-term social reintegration.
As part of the mental health component, participants were trained in emotional regulation, stress management and resilience building techniques. Several inmates reported improved emotional wellbeing, reduced anxiety and better coping strategies following the sessions.
One of the beneficiaries hailed the initiative saying it has helped to improve her emotional wellbeing. “This programme helped me understand my emotions better. I sleep well now, practise breathing exercises and handle anger in a healthier way.” Another inmate described the counselling sessions as a turning point that restored her sense of hope.
The entrepreneurship and economic empowerment segment trained about 200 women in bookkeeping, customer service, e-commerce, basic business planning and low-capital enterprise development. Participants also received hands-on vocational training in tailoring, bakery, Adire textile production, plant-based food wrapping and other income-generating skills.
Another beneficiary said the training changed her outlook on business ownership. “I now know that I can start something small when I leave here. I feel confident that I can support myself legally,” she said.
A cell leader at the facility described Reform360 as empowering, noting that the mental health sessions helped her chart a path toward self-reliance and enabled her to provide emotional support to other inmates facing similar struggles.
Speaking at the programme, the Deputy Controller of Corrections, Beatrice Onyemachi, praised the initiative, stating that participants demonstrated renewed purpose and commitment. “The group counselling and peer support sessions have reduced stigma and encouraged women to seek help without fear,” she said.
VCDF also disclosed that through its ASPIRE scholarship scheme, it has funded General Certificate Examination (GCE) registration for 200 incarcerated women nationwide. The foundation noted that Reform360 aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals on gender equality, quality education, decent work and reduced inequalities, while SEEPCO reaffirmed its support for initiatives that promote inclusion and sustainable social impact in Nigeria.