Reformed for Impact: NCoS Zone A Holds Graduation, Exhibitions | ClipTV Online

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) Zone A has organized a graduation ceremony and exhibition for inmates within the Zone. The graduation ceremony held at the maximum security custodial center, Kirikiri, Apapa, Lagos welcomes both military and paramilitary agencies. It was presided over by the NCoS Controller-General, CG Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche MFR, mni. The exhibition was a display of real impact reformation for the inmates, also showcasing adequate preparation for integration of inmates back to the society.

Zone A Commander, Assistant Controller General (ACG) Opeyemi Fatinikun mni in his speech during the inmate graduation and exhibition ceremony acknowledged the roles Controller General has played for excellent service to be delivered by NCoS officers. He highlights the collaborative efforts with other security agencies. He further stated that fostering inter-agency collaboration strengthens information sharing and has contributed immensely to the graduation witnessed today. The ACG stated, “this is is an opportunity to celebrate our own creativity, resilience, and determination.”

Furthermore, he underscored that rehabilitation in the correctional centers serves as a fresh opportunities for the inmates. “This exhibition serves as the testament to the power of second chance given to our inmates including capacity for growth and transformation,” he said.

Additionally, Fatinikun highlighted that rehabilitation is not a destination, it is rather a journey. He then vouch his commitment and that of his men. He encouraged that the inmates talents and potentials be celebrated, stating that such will enhance further productivity, growth, and transformation.

In concluding his speech, the ACG calls on corporate and individuals to explore potential opportunities for collaborations and partnerships. He noted that this collaboration will improve the services provided to the inmates and better prepare them for reintegration into the society.

One of the inmates by the name Precious who was also given the opportunity to speak on the occasion, he fascinated the audience on how the custodial facility help people become better citizens.

Precious stated that correctional facilities are built not to contain but to correct. He emphasized the roles of NCoS officers in helping to reshape inmates. Furthermore, he noted that the cells in correctional facilities can become classrooms when properly managed.

He further note that it has been a reformation for impact on his personal life, stating that he is now a BSc. Holder, a degree he never had prior to his presence in the correctional center. He concluded by thanking the Controller General of Correctional Service, CG Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche MFR, mni and ACG Ope Fatinikun mni for their initiative in helping rehabilitate inmates.

In an interview with the Controller-General, CG Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche MFR mni, he hailed the ACG in Zone A of the correctional service. He stated that ACG Ope Fatinikun mni has been doing a tremendous job since his posting to the Zone.

The CG further note that the exhibition had demonstrated that correctional facilities are not just punitive measures but rehabilitation centers. “Therefore, correctional service is mending lives,” he said.

In addition, he stated that the items produced in the correctional centers serves as a testament of renewed hope for Nigerians. “we produce shoes, industrial grinding machines, clothes, and other items as showcased today,” he continued. The CG concludes by calling on Nigerians to support the work of the NCoS through partnership and collaboration.

Other activities include trade test presentations, award presentations, goodwill messages, drama presentations by inmates.

Also in attendance is the Executive Governor of Lagos State, HE, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, ably represented by Hon. Sunmi Lanre Odesanya, special Adviser on Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN), Assistant Inspector-General of Police; AIG Adegoke Fayoade and many others.