An official says at least 597 inmates in the custodial centre in Awka, Anambra State, are undergoing educational and vocational training to facilitate reform.

Henry Okafor, the welfare officer of the Nigeria Correctional Service in Anambra, said this during a Mother’s Day outreach by the Catholic Women Organisation (CWO), Awka Diocese, held at the custodial centre on Friday.

He said the service’s mandate was now focused on reform to help inmates seamlessly integrate into society upon release.

The welfare officer said the facility’s inmate population had decreased from 720 to 597 following the chief judge of Anambra’s last visit.

According to him, the centre operates like a school aimed at rehabilitating inmates for reintegration into society.

“This place is like a school, not just for punishment but for reformation.

“Many of the inmates had no prior offences and are here to be reformed,” he said.

Mr Okafor said that the centre runs primary and secondary education, as well as Open University programmes, alongside vocational training in baking, shoemaking and crafts.

He added that individuals and groups, including Peter Obi and the CWO, had been supporting the inmates’ educational pursuits.

In his remarks, the Deputy Controller of the Nigeria Correctional Service, Anambra, Innocent Amaechi, commended the CWO for its consistent annual visits, describing the gesture as impactful.

“It is a yearly ritual the mothers observe, though this is my first time witnessing it live.”

Mr Amaechi urged inmates to value and reconcile with their mothers, stressing the enduring role of maternal prayers in shaping lives.

“If your mother is still alive, thank God. If you are not in good terms, reconcile with her. A mother’s prayer can go a long way in life,” he said.

The deputy controller encouraged inmates to embrace change and draw inspiration from biblical teachings.

Speaking on behalf of the inmates, Chike Onwuzulike expressed appreciation to the CWO for the visit.

Mr Onwuzulike, who has been in custody since 2016, appealed for support in areas such as paying NABTEB fees for about 50 inmates, repairing dilapidated cells, providing ceiling fans, and considering amnesty.

Earlier, the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Paulinus Ezeokafor, represented by the CWO Diocesan Chaplain, Evaristus Okafor, a priest, urged inmates to remain thankful and seek spiritual renewal.

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He prayed for strength for the inmates and eventual freedom, encouraging them to glorify God in all circumstances.

Also, the CWO Diocesan Director, Ngozi Muo, advised inmates to trust in divine providence and seek intercession through the Rosary for transformation and freedom.

The highlight of the visit was the donation of food items, including cooked rice, soup and semo, as well as other materials to the inmates.

(NAN)

Officer says 597 prisoners learning at Awka prison

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