Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Female Inmates and Returned Citizens (FIRC) has disclosed its plans to train female inmates and ex-inmates in Onitsha Custodial Centre, Anambra State on production of sanitary pads and other needed services in the facility.
Technical Adviser to FIRC and Executive Director, Carmelite Prisoners Interest Organisation (CAPIO), Rev. Fr. Jude Isiguzo, disclosed this during a one-day project planning meeting funded by Misean Cara (Mission Support from Ireland).
He said the project titled, “Enhancing Access to Self-reliance & Healthy Rehabilitation for Female Inmates & Ex-inmates in Anambra State,” is targeted at equipping the inmates to become responsible citizens both during and after their incarceration.
He said the organisation formed by group of female ex-inmates in Nigeria was born out of passion of female returned citizens towards changing their ugly experiences while in incarceration as well as the welfare of those still in custody.
According to Isiguzo, the first session involving interested female inmates and staff will commence in March and run till the end of the year.
He urged the authority of the Custodial centre to take ownership of the project to ensure its purpose was not only achieved, but sustained.
He said, “We’ll be providing the necessary materials and technical support, including the resource persons, at the same time ensure close monitoring and supervision for efficiency and effectiveness.
“The Association lead, Association of Female Inmates and Returned Citizens, Lucy Dangana, who did excellently well in Suleja correctional centre will be leading the training. We’ll issue participants with certificates and establish workshop for them thereafter.
“We want the authority of correctional services to take this training seriously, which is part of reformation of the inmates as well as ensure its sustainability even after this year.
“The sustainability plan includes marketing the products which will be branded so they can become source of income for the Centre.”
Responding, Deputy Controller of Corrections, in charge of Onitsha Custodial Centre, Igwe Sunday, appreciated the body for the initiative, pledging the Centre’s cooperation and support for a seamless programme.
