By Funmi Ajumobi

The Vcare for Development Foundation (VCDF) has launched the Reform360 Programme at the Lagos female custodial facility, offering incarcerated women renewed hope through mental health support, education and livelihood skills.

Implemented in partnership with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) and the Centre for Legal Support and Inmate Rehabilitation (CELSIR), and supported by Sterling Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited (SEEPCO), the initiative is designed to help women rebuild their lives, reconnect with their sense of purpose and prepare for successful reintegration into society.

Reform360 delivers a holistic empowerment package that includes mental health first-aid training, legal literacy on gender-based violence, vocational and entrepreneurship training, and enterprise development. The programme focuses on equipping participants with practical skills and emotional resilience needed for life beyond incarceration.

Participants described immediate improvements in their mental wellbeing following intensive counselling and therapy sessions. Many reported better sleep, reduced anxiety and improved emotional control. One beneficiary said the anger management and breathing exercises taught during the programme had helped her overcome panic and emotional distress, while another noted that the training changed her perception of entrepreneurship, showing her that small businesses can begin with minimal capital.

Several women said the programme restored their confidence and sense of self-worth. A cell elder noted that the focus on mental health had enabled her to support fellow inmates and plan for a sustainable livelihood upon release.

In addition to psychosocial support, VCDF is supporting the continuation of formal education for inmates. Through its ASPIRE scholarship initiative, the foundation has funded General Certificate Examination (GCE) enrolment for 200 inmates across custodial centres nationwide.

Speaking on the initiative, the Deputy Controller of Corrections, Beatrice Onyemachi, commended VCDF and CELSIR for their people-centred approach, noting the enthusiasm and focus displayed by the women during the training. She said group counselling and peer support sessions had reduced stigma around mental health and encouraged inmates to seek help.

On the economic empowerment component, Onyemachi said entrepreneurship training marked a turning point for many participants, as they transitioned from passive recipients to active learners. The women received training in bookkeeping, customer relations, e-commerce, low-cost start-ups and business management, alongside vocational skills such as tailoring, Adire textile production, bakery and plant-based food processing.

Aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, the Reform360 Programme aims to promote dignity, inclusion and economic independence among incarcerated women. SEEPCO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting such initiatives as part of its corporate social responsibility, while VCDF pledged to continue leveraging partnerships to deliver sustainable socio-economic outcomes for vulnerable populations in Nigeria.