A foundation, Female Inmates and Returned Citizens (FIRC), says plans are underway to train female inmates and ex-inmates at the Onitsha Custodial Centre, Anambra State on production of sanitary pads.
Rev. Fr. Jude Isiguzo, Technical Adviser, FIRC, disclosed this on Tuesday in Akwa at a project planning meeting funded by Misean Cara, a Non-Profit Organisation in Ireland.
Isiguzo said the training would be tagged, “Enhancing Access to Self-Reliance and Healthy Rehabilitation for Female Inmates and Ex-inmates in Anambra State”.
He said the goal was to equip the female inmates to become responsible citizens, both during and after their incarceration.
According to Isiguzo, the training would commence in March and run till the end of the year.
“We will provide the necessary materials, technical support and resource persons, as well as ensure monitoring and supervision for efficiency and effectiveness of the training.
“Lucy Dangana, Lead, Association of Female Inmates and Returned Citizens, who did excellently well in Suleja Correctional Centre will be leading the training.
“We will issue certificates to participants and establish workshop for them thereafter. The sustainability plan includes marketing the products so it becomes a source of income for the centre.
“We want the authorities of correctional services to take this training seriously to reform the inmates as well as ensure its sustainability even after this year,” he said.
Isiguzo said the foundation, which was established in 2020 by group of ex-female inmates in Nigeria, aimed at changing the ugly experiences of members while in incarceration as well as the welfare of those out of custody.
Responding, Mr Sunday Igwe, Deputy Controller of Corrections, Onitsha Custodial Centre, appreciated the foundation for the initiative, pledging the Centre’s cooperation and support.
Igwe said the centre had a skill acquisition unit where the inmates would learn about sanitary pad production and other crafts.
“Today’s engagement is what we have been yearning for because the correctional facility used to be a dumping ground for criminals.
“But today, the narrative has changed from dumping ground to reformation of criminals and sending them to the society as better citizens.
“That’s why we are always happy to see organisations like this willing to partner with us.
“To better the lots of the inmates so they are no longer idle and useless citizens that will be burdens to themselves and the society.
“We want to assure you that our doors are open to ensure this project is not only sustained, but will have longer lifespan beyond our expectations,” he said. (NAN)
