Group lauds FG’s garment, shoe factory in Abia correctional centre

The Niger Delta Rights Advocates (NDRA) has commended the Federal Government for launching a garment and shoe factory in Abia State to employ inmates, describing it as a significant step towards empowering prisoners and reducing prison populations.

The factory, established by the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) in partnership with Erojim Nig Ltd, is expected to provide vocational training and skills to inmates, enabling them to earn a living both within and outside correctional facilities.

According to Bright Ngolo, the Chairman of NDRA, this initiative is a testament to the government’s ability to transform lives through vocational skills acquisition and training.

The organisation believes that increasing such programmes will help reduce the number of inmates in the 240 custodial centres nationwide. The group urged the Federal Government and National Assembly to increase budgetary allocations to the NCoS and Interior Ministry to further support the initiative. It also praised the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and his team for their efforts in rebuilding and transforming dilapidated custodial centres.

Ngolo said: “This development follows the recent opening of a furniture showroom in Borno State by the NCoS. We see these initiatives as crucial in addressing the country’s socio-economic challenges and promoting rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates into society.

“Similar initiatives have been successful in other countries, such as India’s Tihar Jail factory, which employs inmates in various units, including carpentry, weaving, and tailoring. The products made by inmates are sold under the TJ brand, with a portion of the earnings going towards victim compensation.”

Ngolo added: “By providing inmates with valuable skills and training, the Nigerian government can reduce recidivism rates and promote economic growth.

As NDRA emphasises, investing in vocational training is key to shutting the gates of prisons and giving youth a brighter future.”