Umuahia Custodial Correctional Centre inmates studying at the centre’s National Open University of Nigeria special study centre have solicited for assistance to register for the West Africa School Certificate Examination (WASCE).
One of the inmates, Prince Ebere, made the appeal on behalf of others when the Compassion Connectors Nigeria (CCN) donated writing materials to the study centre and sanitary pads to the female inmates of the centre.
He explained that many of them are desirous to further their education even after their stay in the centre, but “are seriously constrained by lack of funds to pursue our dreams.”
Ebere, who thanked the CCG for the gesture, appealed for the stablishment of more skills acquisition facilities in the centre “for inmates who are willing to acquire one or more skills.”
In a remark earlier after handing over the items, the facilitator of the CCN, Uche Uwalaka, said the gesture was part of events to mark the 2025 Menstrual Hygiene Day.
“This is a collaboration between the GCC, Nigeria’s chapter of Global Compassion Coalition, the Department of Citizenship and Leadership, the state’s Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, Vision Africa International,” he said.
He related that the theme of the day, which is, “Compassion in Leadership Outreach”, seeks to promote compassionate policies for a compassionate world and speaks to the stand of the GCC.
Speaking after receiving the items, the comptrollers of the state command of Nigeria Correctional Service,Josephine Ogbeifu, expressed appreciation for the gesture, describing it as a welcome development.
Represented by the command’s public relations officer, Linus Ikpe, she said the centre recognizes the essence of proper menstrual hygiene and endures that the female inmates are adequately catered for during the period.
In a contribution, the cordinator of the centre, Blessing Ugwo said 80% of the inmates are youths who need not remain the same way they came, underscoring the need for them to acquire education during their stay.
