The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), FCT Command, in partnership with MO Suleiman Next Hyt Outreach, has launched a skills-acquisition programme to empower female inmates at the Suleja Custodial Centre. The initiative seeks to equip inmates with practical vocational skills that will aid their rehabilitation and reintegration into society after serving their sentences.
According to a statement released in Abuja by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Samson Duza, the training programme was designed to discover and nurture hidden talents among inmates while providing them with sustainable livelihood opportunities.
The training covered a range of practical vocations, including hair making, shoe and bag production, knitting, beadwork, and the production of liquid soap and disinfectants. Duza noted that the project was uniquely sponsored by an inmate, Mrs Maryam Omayoza Suleiman, who chose to make a positive impact despite her incarceration.
In her remarks, Mrs Suleiman expressed her motivation to give back to society, stating that being in custody should not stop anyone from contributing to the common good.
“My passion to help others and inspire change encouraged me to sponsor this programme. Being in custody cannot deter my determination to make a difference,” she said.
The Controller of Corrections for the FCT Command, Mr Christopher Jen, commended Suleiman’s initiative, describing it as a commendable act of transformation and leadership. He urged other inmates to emulate her commitment to personal growth and community service.
Jen also reaffirmed the Command’s dedication to rehabilitation, empowerment, and reintegration, emphasising that correctional centres should serve as platforms for renewal and self-development.
Similarly, the Officer-in-Charge of the Suleja Custodial Centre, Assistant Controller of Corrections Ibrahim Suleman, expressed gratitude to the Controller for his leadership and praised the inmates for their cooperation and discipline during the training.
The event concluded with an exhibition of products made by inmates, showcasing handcrafted bags, footwear, knitted items, and bead accessories. Inmates also participated in interactive sessions and debates, sharing their aspirations and stories of transformation.
The NCoS reaffirmed its mission to provide continuous skill-building programmes that foster self-reliance, discipline, and social reintegration for inmates across Nigeria.
