The Controller of Corrections, EDO State Command of Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Mr Sunday Oyakhire, has called for increased collaboration in the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates.
He made the call on Friday at the grand finale of a football tournament held at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Oko, Benin.
The tournament was organised in conjunction with Civic Rights Advancement Initiative, as part of ongoing reformation efforts.
Oyakhire who underscored the need for support from the State Government, civil society groups and the private sector, noted that correctional work extends beyond confinement.
He highlighted the importance of vocational and educational programmes, adding that eight inmates were currently sitting for the WASSCE.
“Our carpentry, metal, tailoring, and music studios need modern equipment,” he said,
In his remark, the sponsor, Andrew Akpor, noted that the initiative aimed to uplift inmates and spotlight their potential.
He added that his organisation planned to replicate the initiative in other regions of the country and called on sports agents and clubs to consider scouting from correctional centres.
Akpor expressed hope that the programme would expand to other regions and serve as a recruitment platform for sports clubs.
“I chose Edo for the first edition because this is home for me. I schooled here.
“We’ve also held a legal symposium, donated food, reading materials, and now we’re helping inmates whose fines are as low as ₦50,000.
“They just need support to rejoin society,” he said.
Also speaking, the Minority Leader of the Edo State House of Assembly, Mr Charity Aiguobarueghian, commended the initiative, saying it gave inmates hope and purpose.
In the final match, Block D triumphed over Block E with a 4-1 win, while Block F secured third place by defeating Block B 3-1.
Cash prizes and trophies were awarded to the top teams.
