The Nigerian Navy Secondary School Abeokuta Alumni Association, Abuja Chapter, on Wednesday visited the Nigerian Correctional Service, Suileja Custodial Centre, as part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.
The association donated toiletries and other hygiene items to inmates and also facilitated the release of six male inmates.
The released inmates were Muhammed Kalifa, Daniel John, Franklin Prince, Abdullahi Hussein, Hosea Adams and Bello Ismail.
Mr Olasunkanmi Oladokun, Chairman of the association, said the visit was aimed at giving hope to the inmates.
“We have always visited orphanages and IDP camps, but this year we decided to do something different. We thought about the inmates who are often forgotten and resolved to visit them.
“We donated toiletries such as toothpaste, bathing soaps, sponges, eye gel and bathroom slippers. We also facilitated the release of six inmates by paying their fines.
“Our message is simply to give them hope that tomorrow will be better,” he said.
While congratulating Nigerians on the 65th anniversary, Oladokun also urged Nigerians to use the occasion to adopt a positive attitude towards the country, stressing that citizens had a role to play in nation-building.
Navy Capt. Godfrey Osuobeni, former Chairman of the association, advised the inmates not to see their stay at the centre as the end of life.
“You are here not because you are the worst sinners but for correction. See the situation as an opportunity to amend your ways. Everything will be all right after you leave, and you will become better citizens,” he said.
Also speaking, Mr Ugo Uyanna, Public Relations Officer of the association, said the outreach was part of its annual corporate social responsibility.
“Every Oct. 1, we reach out to vulnerable groups. Last year, we visited the Defence Medical Centre, Mogadishu Barracks; two years ago, an IDP camp; and three years ago, a Motherless Babies Home.
“Going forward, we plan to do more for female inmates and contribute to facilities like the chapel within our capacity,” he said.
Meanwhile, an official of the custodial centre, who requested anonymity as he was not authorised to speak, cautioned the released inmates against returning to crime, warning that the centre would not be lenient if they returned.