FROM STIGMATIZATION TO REINTEGRATION: FAITH-BASED INTERVENTION AND EX-INMATES IN NIGERIA

The reintegration of ex-inmates remains a significant concern within human services, particularly in contexts where stigmatization and social exclusion persist after incarceration. In Nigeria, many formerly incarcerated individuals face barriers that limit their social and economic participation, while faith-based interventions have become important sources of support. This study examines the forms and lived experiences of stigmatization among ex-inmates and explores their perceptions of the influence of faith-based interventions on reintegration outcomes in Oyo State, Nigeria. A qualitative phenomenological design was adopted to capture participants’ lived experiences. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with purposively selected ex-inmates and key informants and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that stigmatization occurs in various forms, including social exclusion, employment discrimination, family alienation, and internalized stigma. These experiences negatively affect self-worth, social relationships, and opportunities for reintegration. Participants also reported that faith-based interventions contributed to their reintegration by providing emotional support, fostering a sense of belonging, facilitating access to livelihood opportunities, and supporting personal transformation. The study concludes that although faith-based interventions help to ease the effects of stigmatization, they do not fully address broader structural barriers. The paper recommends closer collaboration between formal correctional systems and faith-based organizations, as well as community-based efforts to reduce stigma and support reintegration.