The management of Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has embarked on a 3-day workshop for Command Public Relations Officers of the Service for better image management.

The Service has, however, presented an award of recognition to Blueprint.ng Deputy Online Editor, Bode Olagoke, for his dedication, clarity and keeping the public informed of happenings in the Service. 

A Masters Degree holder in Media Arts from the University of Abuja, Olagoke has reported activities of the Nigerian Correctional Service for 13 years. 

Other prominent Journalists honoured include: Omeiza Ajayi of Vanguard, Christiana Esebonu of Leadership, Ibironke Ariyo of NAN, Victor Azu of NTA, Sifon Essien of TVC, Esther Lawal, formerly of MITV, Tina Abeku of The Guardian, Kunle Ojo of Galaxy TV and Victor Ogani of ITV. 

According to the Controller General Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Ado Sale, the Blueprint Correspondent and others were honored “For amplying truth with clarity and turning stories into bridges of understanding.”

Speaking earlier while declaring the 3-day worship open, CG Nwakuche, said NCoS under his leadership was undergoing unprecedented reforms aimed at enhancing proficiency, deepening public trust, and reshaping the national perception of our mandate. 

He said: “Public relations remains a central pillar in the transformation journey of the Nigerian Correctional Service. 

“The image of any institution is as important as the work it does, and in the last few months, we have made deliberate efforts to strengthen our communication channels, expand our engagement with stakeholders, and project the Service in its rightful light, which is as a Service committed to safe custody, humane treatment, and meaningful reformation of offenders.

He revealed that since he assumed office, one of his priorities has been to upscale the capacity of the Public Relations Unit. 

“We have increased support and financial allocation to the unit, providing modern communication tools, and intensified media engagement at both the national and command levels. These steps were taken because I firmly believe that effective public relations is not optional, it is an essential driver of our legitimacy, operational transparency, and public confidence.

“I am pleased to note that our efforts are already yielding results. The Service is experiencing a more positive and balanced representation in the media, and public understanding of our mandate continues to deepen. From showcasing our reforms, to promptly addressing misconceptions, to celebrating our officers’ hard work, the Public Relations Unit has demonstrated remarkable professionalism. I commend the PRO at the national headquarters for his leadership and proactive engagement. Your work speaks loudly, and the Service is better because of it.”

While commending the National and Command spokesmen for their efforts in promoting the image of the Service, the NCoS boss promised to continue to provide the resources, encouragement, and institutional backing required for the  to excel in their duty and responsibilities. 

In aattendance were senior management of the Service, sponsors, resource persons, media executives, Command Public Relations Officers from the 36 states of the Federation and many other NCoS staff.