The Nigerian Correctional Service, FCT Command, has trained female inmates at Suleja Custodial Centre in vocational skills to promote rehabilitation and reintegration.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Samson Duza, on Friday in Abuja.
Duza stated that the training, which was organised in partnership with MO Suleiman Next Hyt Outreach, was aimed at discovering and nurturing talents among inmates while equipping them with sustainable livelihood skills.
He explained that the skills acquisition programme included knitting, hair making, shoe making, bead making, bag production, as well as the production of liquid soap and disinfectants.
He noted that the initiative had been sponsored by an inmate, Mrs Maryam Omayoza Suleiman, who was determined to make a positive impact in spite of her incarceration.
In her remarks, Suleiman said that her motivation came from her belief that everyone deserved a second chance, and added that being in custody should not prevent anyone from contributing meaningfully to society.
“My passion to help others and to make a difference inspired me to sponsor this programme. My incarceration cannot deter my resolve to impact lives positively,”she said.
Earlier, the Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, Mr Christopher Jen, commended Suleiman for her gesture and described the initiative as a laudable step toward self-development and reformation among inmates.
Jen urged other inmates to emulate the spirit of commitment and transformation demonstrated by Suleiman and reaffirmed the command’s dedication to creating opportunities that promoted skills acquisition and rehabilitation.
He reiterated the command’s commitment to ensuring a conducive environment for rehabilitation and reintegration, while promoting a positive image of the correctional system through sustained empowerment programmes.
Also speaking, the Officer-in-Charge of the Suleja Custodial Centre, Assistant Controller of Corrections, Mr Ibrahim Suleman, appreciated the Controller for his leadership.
He also expressed gratitude to the inmates for their cooperation and adherence to the rules of the facility.
Highlights of the event included an exhibition of products made by inmates, such as knitted items, footwear, bags, and beadwork.
There were also interactive sessions and debates that provided a platform for inmates to share their experiences and aspirations.
