In a bid to enhance the rehabilitation and reintegration of female inmates, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs has announced its intention to partner with the Correctional Service on skill acquisition and aftercare programs.
During a courtesy visit to her office in Abuja, Barrister (Mrs) Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, expressed the ministry’s commitment to collaborate with the Correctional Service. She emphasised the importance of empowering women, both inside and outside prison walls, as a means to foster socio-economic development in the country.
Highlighting the potential of female inmates, Barrister Kennedy-Ohanenye recalled her visit to the Suleija Correctional Centre, where she observed firsthand the challenges faced by female inmates. Moved by their plight, the ministry facilitated the release of 92 female inmates, recognizing their entrepreneurial spirit even in confinement, as they engaged in producing items such as soaps, detergent, and clothing.
The Minister revealed plans to initiate a sustainable empowerment scheme, providing industrial machines and modern equipment to upscale production within the correctional facilities. Moreover, with the introduction of the E-market portal, the ministry aims to enable female inmates to work and earn income, with their savings accessible upon release.
This collaborative effort seeks to address the plight of female inmates and prevent recidivism by offering them meaningful sources of livelihood post-release. Additionally, Barrister Kennedy-Ohanenye’s advocacy led to the approval by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum for the establishment of Mobile Courts nationwide, expediting justice on gender-based violence and reducing congestion in Correctional Centres.
Acknowledging the importance of collaboration, Controller-General Haliru Nadaba commended the Ministry of Women Affairs for its dedication to empowering women, children, and vulnerable members of society, aligning with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The partnership between the Ministry of Women Affairs and the Correctional Service reflects a concerted effort towards promoting rehabilitation, reintegration, and empowerment, underscoring the government’s commitment to holistic development and social justice.
