As part of efforts to provide students with practical exposure to crime management practices, the Crime Management Department of Lens Polytechnic Offa organized an excursion to the Nigerian Correctional Service in Omu-Aran, Kwara State, on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
Led by the Head of Department, Mr. Christian Egbekoba, and accompanied by other staff members, the students were warmly received by officials of the correctional facility. The visit aimed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application in the field of crime management.
During the guided tour, the students were introduced to the core principles of the correctional service, encapsulated in the “3 R’s”: Rehabilitation, Reformation, and Reintegration. These principles are fundamental to the correctional system’s mission of transforming offenders into responsible members of society.
Addressing the students, Assistant Controller of Corrections (ACC) Olaniran Adeniyi highlighted key factors contributing to criminal behavior, including lack of contentment, cybercrime, drug abuse, corruption, and the pursuit of quick wealth. He stressed the importance of personal accountability and the need for students to avoid unlawful activities, reminding them that “those who cannot face the law should not break it.”
Reflecting on the excursion, Mr. Egbekoba expressed gratitude for the opportunity to visit the facility. “This excursion was an eye-opening experience that bridged theoretical learning with practical insights into correctional practices,” he remarked. “The comprehensive lecture sessions, particularly on the ‘3 R’s,’ enriched our academic discussions and professional preparedness. It also inspired our students to serve as agents of positive change in their communities.”
He emphasized that the visit had deepened the department’s understanding of correctional systems and pledged to incorporate the insights gained into the curriculum. “We look forward to fostering collaborations with institutions like the Nigerian Correctional Service to prepare our students for impactful careers in crime management,” he added.
Other staff members who participated in the excursion included Mr. Dumoye Olayemi, Mr. Adebiyi, Miss Princess, and Mr. Godbless.
The excursion not only provided practical knowledge but also reinforced the department’s mission to equip students with the skills needed to address and prevent crime effectively.