Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has applauded the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) for its proactive efforts in reforming inmates through talent discovery and skill-building initiatives, aimed at making them productive members of society upon release.
The governor gave the commendation on Wednesday while flagging off the final match of the month-long Inter-Hostel Football Competition held at the Enugu Custodial Centre.
Represented by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Chief Emeka Ajogwu, Governor Mbah expressed satisfaction with the discipline, hygiene, and reformation programmes being implemented within the custodial facilities across the state.
“The Enugu State Government will continue to support the Nigerian Correctional Service in its mission to transform lives. We want inmates to understand that this process is about love, rehabilitation, and reintegration, not punishment,” he said.
He further praised the NCoS for using sports, especially football, as a positive channel for engaging inmates, discovering talent, and boosting morale.
“This football competition is a step in the right direction. It provides a platform to harness and nurture hidden talents within the correctional facilities,” Mbah added.
Speaking at the event, the Controller-General of NCoS, Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche, reiterated the Service’s commitment to inmate transformation through engaging activities.
Represented by the Zonal Coordinator for Zone M, Mrs. Prisca Oku, the C-G emphasized the importance of providing platforms for skill and talent development.
“We are focused on productive engagements that equip inmates with skills and confidence to reintegrate successfully into society. Football is one of the tools we are using to unlock potential and inspire a new path for these individuals,” Nwakuche noted.
The Controller of Corrections in Enugu State, Mr. Valins Obizue, thanked the Controller-General for endorsing and supporting the football competition, which he described as a valuable initiative for discovering new sporting talent.
“We hope to see some of these players representing the state or even the country someday. This is why we urge government bodies, corporate sponsors, and philanthropists to continue supporting our reformation programmes,” Obizue said.
Also speaking, the Deputy Controller of Corrections, Enugu Custodial Centre, Mr. Sunday Igwe, expressed appreciation to Rangers International FC for donating branded jerseys to the finalist teams.
“We are proud of what we witnessed today. Football has brought unity and motivation to these inmates, and I’m confident that some of the talents discovered today could go on to join professional clubs,” he added.
In a tightly contested final, Team IDR edged out Team Asylum with a 1-0 victory. M Ward Team secured third place following a series of round-robin matches involving eight hostel teams over the past month.
