By Ibironke Ariyo
The FCT Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), in collaboration with two non-governmental organizations (NGOs), inaugurated a hairdressing and laundry training center at the Dukpa Model Agricultural Centre in Abuja.
In a speech delivered during the ceremony held on Friday in Abuja, the Inspector-General of Correctional Services (CGC), Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche, thanked the NGOs for their commitment to providing added value to inmates.
In a statement, the Command’s Director of Public Relations (CPRO), Samson Duza, explained that Mr. Nwakuche was represented by the Deputy Inspector-General of Correctional Services (DCC), Mr. Usman Yahaya.
Mr. Nwakuche stated that this milestone underscores their shared commitment to improving reintegration opportunities for inmates.
Today, we thank the two NGOs, the Legend Golden Care Foundation and the Initiative for Public Awareness on the Rights and Rehabilitation of Vulnerable Persons, for this remarkable initiative.
We are grateful to them for enabling the inmates to acquire sustainable vocational skills that promote successful social reintegration.
Nwakuche encouraged the inmates to use these vocational skills to improve their lives during and after incarceration.
He further encouraged the NGOs to expand their support to other prisons in the country.
In her speech, the Executive Director of the Legend Golden Care Foundation, Kanayo Olisa-Metuh, emphasized the objective of the initiative.
“Our goal is not only to provide assistance, but also to provide inmates with a source of income so they can become independent upon their release,” stated Mr. Olisa-Metuh.
In his welcome address, Chinedu Ogah, Chairman of the House Committee on Correctional Services, represented by Donatus Matthew, reaffirmed the 10th Assembly’s commitment to improving rehabilitation opportunities for inmates across the country.
He supported the inauguration with a donation and pledged continued support.
Olatubosun Ajibogun, Director of Correctional Services at the FCT, thanked partners for their collaboration and support in his speech and assured them that the command would put all donations to good use.
“This initiative marks an important milestone in the efforts of the Nigerian Correctional Service to rehabilitate inmates and reintegrate them into society,” he stated.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the inauguration ceremony brought together traditional rulers, religious leaders, and key representatives of the judiciary.
It served as a platform to celebrate the synergies and progress achieved in promoting human rights and the reform and rehabilitation of prisoners.
