Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The reintegration of ex-convicts into society after serving their time is a critical aspect of the criminal justice system. In Nigeria, the aftercare services and reintegration programs for ex-convicts play a vital role in reducing recidivism rates and promoting social cohesion. However, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness and challenges faced by these programs in Nigeria. This research project aims to conduct a survey on the aftercare service and reintegration of ex-convicts in Nigeria. The study will explore the various aftercare programs available for ex-convicts, including counseling, vocational training, job placement services, and community support initiatives. By examining the current state of these services, the research seeks to identify gaps and areas for improvement in the reintegration process. The research will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews with key stakeholders such as ex-convicts, representatives from aftercare organizations, government officials, and community members. The quantitative surveys will gather data on the types of aftercare services provided, the number of ex-convicts benefiting from these programs, and the outcomes of the reintegration efforts. The qualitative interviews will provide in-depth insights into the experiences and perspectives of ex-convicts regarding the aftercare services they received and their challenges in reintegrating into society. Additionally, interviews with stakeholders will offer valuable input on the strengths and weaknesses of the current aftercare programs and suggestions for enhancing their effectiveness. The findings of this research will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on the aftercare service and reintegration of ex-convicts in Nigeria. The results will help policymakers, practitioners, and researchers better understand the needs of ex-convicts during the reintegration process and inform the development of more targeted and evidence-based aftercare programs. Ultimately, the research aims to support the successful reintegration of ex-convicts into society, reduce recidivism rates, and promote a more inclusive and rehabilitative criminal justice system in Nigeria.

Thesis Overview

1.1 Background to the Study

1.2 Statement of the Problem

1.3 Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this study is to examine the aftercare service and reintegration of ex-convicts in Nigeria, with particular reference to Akwa Ibom State. Specifically, the objectives of the study are:

1. 1. 1. To examine the obstacles to reintegrating ex-convicts in Akwa Ibom State.
      2. To ascertain the state of reformation and rehabilitation programmes in Nigeria Prisons Service in Akwa Ibom State.
      3. To ascertain the efficacy of the aftercare service in Akwa Ibom State

1.4 Research Questions

1. 1. 1. What are the obstacles to the reintegration of ex-convicts in Akwa Ibom State?
      2. What is the state of reformation/rehabilitation programmes in Nigeria Prison Service in Akwa Ibom State?
      3. How effective are the Aftercare Services in Akwa Ibom State?
         

         1.5 Research Hypotheses

      4. There is no relationship between the quality of reintegration programmes in the prison and successful reintegration into society after discharge.
      5. There is no relationship between the condition of prisons and successful reintegration into society after discharge.

1.6       Significance of the StudyThe findings of this study will help other researchers to carry out a qualitative and comprehensive analysis of aftercare service in other states of the federation. The result of this study will help to further educate the academic community on Nigerian prisons service strategic roles and challenges. It will give the prisoners an insight of what they will face on being released as such they could be motivated to engage in occupational and vocational training in order to make them self-reliant on discharge. It will make government to take steps in putting up a legal framework for comprehensive reform of the Nigerian prison system. The study will further assist the government to formulate crime control policy. The present policy of the government is to get criminals out of circulation by imprisonment. Less attention is paid to what happens when the convicted prisoner is released back into the society.1.7       Scope and limitation of the StudyThe study is delimited to the aftercare unit of prison in Uyo, Eket, Ikot Ekpene, Abak and Ikot Abasi. Ex-prisoners, Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), Employers of Labour and Community leaders in Akwa Ibom State were involved in the study. This study is limited to Akwa Ibom State. The reason for choosing Akwa Ibom State includes its proximity to the researcher, and the familiarity of the researcher with the area which facilitated the collection of data. 1.8       Definition of key concepts Aftercare services: This is a scheme introduced by the Nigerian prison service for the treatment and rehabilitation of discharged prisoners. The scheme is aimed at facilitating the re-integration of ex-convicts into the society through collaboration with NGOs, Employers of labour, community leaders etc