To assess the circumstances of children and young persons in conflict with the law who were being held in custodial facilities, evaluate the suitability of their rehabilitation and reintegration prospects, and identify pathways for transitioning eligible children from detention into protective family, educational, and community-based support systems.
As part of a multidisciplinary research and intervention initiative supported by UNICEF and the office of the public defender lagos state, field assessments were conducted across four custodial facilities housing children and young persons in conflict with the law.
Â
The project involved structured interviews, social assessments, stakeholder consultations, and case reviews to better understand the factors contributing to youth offending, barriers to rehabilitation, and the social conditions that could either support or undermine successful reintegration.
Â
Particular attention was given to:
Â
- Family and community support systems.
- Educational history and opportunities for school re-enrollment.
- Social and environmental risk factors.
- Availability of protective caregivers.
- Likelihood of successful reintegration.
- Factors associated with recidivism and reoffending.
- Access to rehabilitation, mentorship, and life-skills development programs.
The research findings were used to inform individualized reintegration plans and support evidence-based decision-making regarding child rehabilitation and long-term welfare outcomes.
The project contributed significantly to advancing child-centred and rehabilitation-focused approaches within the juvenile justice system.
Through comprehensive assessment and coordinated intervention efforts:
Â
- More than 120 children and young persons were successfully reunited with their families and communities.
- Eligible participants were re-enrolled in educational programs.
- Children requiring additional support were connected to approved residential and community-based programs.
- Participants gained access to life-skills training, mentorship, education, and structured support services designed to promote positive behavioural outcomes.
- The intervention strengthened reintegration pathways and reduced barriers associated with social exclusion and future offending.
The project demonstrated the importance of combining research, social assessment, rehabilitation planning, and family engagement to achieve sustainable outcomes for vulnerable children and young people.
Â
Â
