A Non-Governmental Organisation, Legend Golden Care Foundation (LGCF), has revealed plans to commence renovating and equipping the Skill Acquisition Center at the New Yola Correctional Center in Yola, the capital of Adamawa State.
The Foundation has also donated some skill acquisition kits for a certain category of inmates in the Correctional Center.
LGCF Executive Director, Mrs. Kanayo Olisa-Metuh, who disclosed this during a working visit to the Yola New Correctional Center, said that her Foundation has taken it as a point of duty to renovate and equip the skill acquisition center as part of its commitment towards providing inmates with necessary skills and tools to enhance their lives and be productive after reintegrating into society.
Mrs. Olisa-Metuh, represented by the Foundation’s Public Relations and Communication Officer, Mr. Promise Okah, emphasized that beyond learning a trade or mastering a craft, skill acquisition further entails empowerment which has transformative effects on individuals’ sense of self-worth and dignity, helping inmates break free from the cycle of crime and incarceration.
“In our society today, individuals who have been incarcerated often face numerous challenges upon their release. From stigma and discrimination to lack of opportunities, the barriers to successful reintegration into society can seem insurmountable. However, it is precisely in the face of these challenges that the importance of skill acquisition becomes apparent.
“LGCF has taken this as a point of duty and responsibility to equip inmates with the necessary knowledge and tools needed to develop/enhance their livelihood skills to rebuild their lives and chart a new course for themselves to reintegrate into society as productive and law-abiding citizens.
“Skill acquisition is not just about learning a trade or mastering a craft; it’s about empowerment. It has a transformative effect on individuals’ sense of self-worth and dignity. It provides them with a sense of purpose and direction, helping them to break free from the cycle of crime and incarceration.
“By investing in training for inmates, we are not only investing in their future but in the future of our society as a whole. Studies have shown that individuals who participate in education and training programs while incarcerated are significantly less likely to return to prison upon their release. This contributes to safer and more cohesive communities.
“So, this is just the first step LGCF is taking towards ensuring that the Skill acquisition center in the facility is fully functional as part of our commitment to social and Human Capacity Development”, Olisa-Metuh said.
Furthermore, the Executive Director assured of her Foundation’s continued support and partnership with the Correctional Center in the collaborative efforts to enhance the well-being of inmates.
Speaking during the visit, Assistant Controller of Corrections (ACC) Usman Musa Gambaki, represented by Chief Superintendent of Corrections (CSC) Dauda Stephen, commended Mrs. Olisa-Metuh and her Foundation for the gesture, noting that skill acquisition is one of the key areas in reforming, rehabilitating, and reintegrating inmates into society.
“We really appreciate you for this, and it is our prayer that God will increase you and at the same time, don’t relent on your efforts. Whenever someone is empowered with skills, then of course, you have empowered his generation and the society at large”, he said.
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