The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Federal Capital Territory Command, in partnership with Hope Behind Bars Africa, has distributed starter packs to 16 former inmates who participated in the organisation’s Farming Justice Project across custodial centres in the FCT.
The initiative, unveiled on Thursday, is aimed at supporting the reintegration of ex-inmates into society and reducing the rate of recidivism by providing beneficiaries with tools to begin productive economic activities immediately after release.
Items distributed included seven fish tanks, 10 knapsack sprayers, 350 buckets, 30 units of assorted seeds, and 1,050 fingerlings allocated at 150 per fish-farming beneficiary. Other items included payment of shop rent for one beneficiary, a clipper, a fan, and cash support of ₦50,000 for each of the 16 beneficiaries.
Speaking during the ceremony, Nurudeen Hassan said the Farming Justice Project was designed to ensure that former inmates are given opportunities to rebuild their lives after leaving custody.
According to him, the starter packs represent more than tools for business, describing them as a bridge from custody to community.
He added that the organisation remains committed to providing ex-inmates with the skills, support, and dignity needed to reintegrate successfully into society.
Also speaking, the Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, described the collaboration as consistent with the mandate of the Nigerian Correctional Service in the areas of reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration.
He urged the beneficiaries to make proper use of the items provided and become positive examples for others still undergoing rehabilitation.
The Controller further noted that the beneficiaries had acquired the vocational skills freely while in custody and encouraged them to extend the knowledge to others in their communities.
Officials said the partnership seeks to bridge the gap between custody and community while expanding opportunities for more persons exiting custodial centres across the FCT.
The event was attended by senior officers of the NCoS FCT Command, officials of non-governmental organisations, as well as families and friends of the beneficiaries.