The Nigerian Correctional Service has empowered five inmates in Akwa Ibom with essential starter packs to support their reintegration into society and help them build sustainable livelihoods after their release. The controller of the command, Frank Okonkwo, made this known during the presentation at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Uyo. He reaffirmed NCoS’s strong commitment to rehabilitation, describing it as a core mandate of the NCoS Act, 2019.
Mr Okonkwo explained that empowering inmates remains one of the most effective ways to reduce repeat offenses and improve public safety. He noted that the command has continued to expand its vocational and skills-acquisition programmes to ensure inmates are not only trained but also equipped with the tools needed to start a new phase of life. He said, “When inmates are trained and empowered, we are not just releasing individuals back into society; we are releasing skilled, productive citizens capable of contributing meaningfully to their communities. This is how we build a safer and better society.”
He stated that the empowerment initiative, carried out with strategic partners, highlights the service effort to strengthen rehabilitation and reform projects across the state command. He added that the command remains dedicated to transforming lives, promoting second chances, and ensuring that every empowered inmate becomes a symbol of positive change in society.
According to him, the beneficiaries were trained in hairdressing, tailoring, and barbing, and received professional starter kits that will help them begin work immediately in their chosen trades. He said that out of the five empowered inmates, two have already been discharged, while the remaining three are expected to be discharged between now and January 2026.
