The Ondo State Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami, has urged inmates in correctional facilities across the state to use their time in custody to acquire vocational and educational skills that would help them lead productive lives after their release.
Adelami made the call on Saturday during a visit to the Olokuta Medium Security Correctional Centre in Akure, where he interacted with inmates and offered encouragement, spiritual support and welfare assistance, including food items.
The Deputy Governor, who is also the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Prison Fellowship Nigeria, encouraged the inmates to seek God, strengthen their faith and take advantage of the rehabilitation and skills acquisition opportunities available at the correctional centre.
He stressed that being in a correctional facility should not be regarded as the end of one’s life, but as an opportunity for reflection, transformation and preparation for a better future.
“Please seek God, strengthen your faith and use this opportunity to acquire skills that will make you self-reliant when you regain your freedom.
“Do not allow the mistakes of your past to define your future; let them become lessons that will guide you towards a better life,” Adelami said.
He noted that vocational and educational training could play an important role in helping inmates successfully reintegrate into society.
According to him, acquiring relevant skills would provide inmates with productive means of livelihood after their release, urging them to take their rehabilitation seriously.
At the Juvenile Correctional Centre in Akure, Adelami also advised young inmates to remain sober and reflect on their actions.
He encouraged them to acquire new skills, change their attitudes and prepare themselves for responsible lives after their release.
The Officer-in-Charge of the Olokuta Medium Security Correctional Centre, Olayinka Dada, commended the Deputy Governor for the visit.
Dada said the interventions of Adelami and members of the Prison Fellowship Nigeria had contributed significantly to improving the welfare and rehabilitation of inmates.
