NCoS, NGO Empower 16 Ex-Inmates With Starter Packs To Strengthen Reintegration
By Anne Osemekeh, Abuja
The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, in partnership with Hope Behind Bars Africa, has empowered 16 former inmates with business and agricultural starter packs under the organisation’s Farming Justice Project, aimed at supporting successful reintegration and reducing recidivism.
According to the FCT Command of the NCoS, the beneficiaries, drawn from custodial centres across the territory, received various livelihood support items designed to facilitate immediate economic engagement and self-reliance upon release.
Items distributed included seven fish tanks, 10 knapsack sprayers, 350 buckets, 30 packs of assorted seeds, 1,050 fingerlings for fish-farming beneficiaries, payment of shop rent for one beneficiary, a clipper, a standing fan, and cash grants of ₦50,000 each for all 16 beneficiaries.
Speaking at the ceremony, a representative of the Executive Director of Hope Behind Bars Africa, Nurudeen Hassan, described the initiative as a practical investment in second chances.
“The Farming Justice Project is built on the belief that freedom should come with opportunity. These starter packs are more than tools; they represent a bridge from custody to community. We are committed to ensuring that returning citizens have the capital, skills and dignity required to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society,” he said.
The Controller of Corrections, FCT Command, Christopher Peter Jen, commended the partnership, noting that it aligns with the Service’s core mandate of reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates.
He urged the beneficiaries to make productive use of the support provided, stressing that their success stories would encourage greater investment in rehabilitation programmes.
“Let your success be the strongest argument for more support to those coming behind you. The skills you acquired while in custody were given freely to help shape your future. Now that you are back in society, use them well and be willing to share your knowledge with others,” he stated.
Officials of both organisations said the collaboration is intended to bridge the gap between custody and community by providing practical pathways to economic independence. They reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the programme to benefit more individuals exiting custodial centres across the FCT.
The event was attended by senior officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service, representatives of partner organisations, and family members and friends of the beneficiaries.
