Peter Obi Advocates For Inmate Skill Acquisition Programmes
The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on the Federal Government to implement skill acquisition programmes in correctional facilities nationwide. Obi emphasized that such initiatives would not only rehabilitate inmates but also equip them to contribute positively to societal development.
This appeal was made in a post on his X handle on Thursday, following his visit to the Nigerian Correctional Centre in Onitsha on Wednesday. Obi noted that empowering inmates with productive skills would prepare them for more meaningful lives after their rehabilitation.
He remarked, “This will greatly go a long way in rehabilitating the inmates, mainly youths in the correctional facilities, and prepare them to live more positive lives and contribute productively to societal development.”
During his visit, which coincided with Christmas celebrations, Obi joined the Archbishop of Onitsha and Grand Patron of the Nigerian Correctional Centres, Archbishop Valerian Okeke, to interact with inmates and assess the facilities. He commended the Archbishop for his intervention in establishing a functional Skill Acquisition Centre at the correctional facility.
Obi observed that inmates were already benefiting from the centre by learning various productive skills, describing the development as exemplary. He added, “As one who believes deeply in human development through education as a critical tool for national development, I find the establishment of these educational facilities very commendable.”
The former Anambra State governor urged the Federal Government to replicate such initiatives across correctional facilities nationwide, highlighting their potential to transform lives and improve societal outcomes. He also expressed profound gratitude to Archbishop Okeke for his consistent efforts in supporting the rehabilitation of inmates and fostering societal progress.
Peter Obi’s advocacy reflects his long-standing commitment to education and human development as essential pillars for national growth.
