December 02, (THEWILL) – Inmates of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Imo State, on Friday, December 1, 2023, showcased their talents at an edutainment talent hunt, which took place at the Owerri centre.
Declaring the ceremony open, the Controller, Imo State Correctional Service, Kingsley Njoku, emphasised the importance of fishing out the talents and skills of the individuals, highlighting the essence of their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Various items exhibited by the inmates include shoes, security boots, clothes, chairs, artificial hair, handbags, walking sticks, bartons, liquid soaps, security caps, portrait drawings, and crafts, among others.
The Controller, while excitedly checking the exhibited items with other top officers of the Centre, said the showcased materials have illustrated the positive impact the inmates have gained based on their humility and open-mindedness to teachings, shifting the perspective from seeing them as burdens to recognising their potential contributions to society. It underscored the necessity of providing opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration, aiming to reduce recidivism rates.
“The success of this exhibition is a testament to the support from the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Tinubu, good-spirited individuals, charity organisations and the dedication of the participating inmates. It served as a powerful reminder that with support and opportunity, individuals can still transform and positively impact society,” he said.
In his remarks, A Deputy Controller in the Service, Calistus Eke, expressed joy over a successful outing organised by the centre, adding that the inmates, once reintegrated into society, would not suffer from hunger due to their acquired skills.
One of the inmates, who was said to have spent twelve years in prison, thanked Controller Njoku for having played a fatherly role in their lives.
“Daddy, we are grateful for all your kind gestures towards us, the inmates. We are not going to take it for granted. I pray God continues to bless you and grant your heart desires,” he prayed.
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