Abuja: The Luchi Advocate Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, has taken a significant step in supporting the reintegration of skilled ex-inmates from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) custodial centres by donating vocational equipment and production materials. The initiative aims to aid the ex-inmates in their transition back into society by providing them with the necessary tools to apply their learned skills effectively.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the equipment and materials were officially handed over to the FCT Controller of Corrections, Christopher Jen, in a ceremony held in Abuja. Oluchi Uche, the founder of the foundation, emphasized that the donation aligns with the vision of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) FCT Command, focusing on rehabilitation, reformation, and reintegration of inmates. Uche highlighted the foundation’s commitment to reducing crime and fostering a safer society by empowering former inmates to achieve self-reliance.
Uche urged the beneficiaries to utilize the items effectively and uphold the values of the correctional service. She reiterated that the donations were made out of love and care, not abundance, and encouraged the ex-inmates to leverage the equipment for their intended purposes. She also mentioned previous visits to custodial centres, where the foundation provided relief materials and support for inmate rehabilitation programs. Additionally, Uche disclosed plans to sponsor the West African Senior School Certificate Examination registration fees for 500 indigent students, emphasizing the foundation’s dedication to impacting lives positively.
Christopher Jen, the FCT Controller of Corrections, expressed gratitude to the foundation for its support in building a safer society. He highlighted the importance of maintaining contact with trained ex-inmates to ensure they effectively utilize the vocational skills acquired during their time in custody. Jen affirmed the command’s commitment to rehabilitation and reintegration as vital components of effective corrections, acknowledging the challenges faced by young individuals from vulnerable backgrounds.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the beneficiaries of the donated equipment include individuals trained in various vocational skills such as shoe making, tailoring, and soap making. Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Odiba Daniel expressed appreciation for the support, noting the challenges ex-inmates face in reintegrating into society and earning a livelihood. The donations, including sewing machines, soap-making materials, and vocational tools, along with financial support, are expected to aid in the empowerment and positive societal contributions of the ex-inmates.