Psychosocial Challenges of Inmates as Perceived by Correctional Officers in Kwara State, Nigeria

This study explored correctional officers’ perceptions of inmates’ psychosocial challenges in Kwara State, Nigeria, focusing on how officers’ gender, religion, and years of work experience influence these perceptions. A descriptive correlational survey design was employed, involving 120 correctional officers selected through multistage sampling from Ilorin Correctional Center (Oke-Kura), Mandala Correctional Center, and the State Headquarters Office, Ilorin. Descriptive and inferential statistics (t-test, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation) were used to analyze data at the 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed a moderate overall perception of psychosocial challenges, with depression and lack of family contact rated highest. Female officers, those with 15 or more years of experience, and officers from certain religious backgrounds demonstrated higher levels of awareness. The study concludes that demographic factors significantly shape officers’ perceptions and underscores the need for targeted mental health training, gender- and religion-sensitive approaches, and improved psychological services within Nigerian correctional facilities.