Rev. Jacob Mojolagbe of Baptist Church, Ilorin, has admonished inmates to develop their skills and showcase their talents to the world, despite their situation.
Mojolagbe gave the advice on Saturday while delivering his sermon at the 2023 Christmas Carol Service, at the Old Ilorin custodial centre, Oke-Kura.
He said inmates should not be reluctant to add value to their selves by remaining focus and learn new skills.
According to him, no knowledge is a waste as new knowledge and skills acquired in the correctional centre will be useful to them after their jail term to be reformed citizens in the society.
“Without minding your present situation, remain focused and showcase your talents to the world.
“Add value to yourself by embracing new skills. It will be useful for you in every aspect of life,” he said.
The cleric also called on Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other christian bodies to do more for inmates.
He charged them to take the gospel to the correctional centres and as well support the inmates through donations and surprise gifts.
According to him, most pastors only focus on their church members and abandoning the inmates.
“It is everybody’s responsibility to look after the inmates. We cannot as a pastor or Man of God focus on people moving freely outside and abandoning the inmates.
“This is the time to take the gospel to them and surprise them with material gifts; money and other support they deserve.
“Government alone cannot be responsible to inmates. We are to be on a rescue mission to deliver them,” he said.
The Controller of Corrections, Kwara Command, Mr Adeyinka Oyun, urged the public and NGOs to continue to support the inmates.
Oyun, represented by the Officer in-charge of Old Ilorin Custodial Centre, DCC Ephraim Abiola, advised the public not to abandon the inmates.
“The inmates need you both morally and materially. They need your support and encouragement to deliver them of anti-social behaviour.
“They need moral teachings and encouragement from the public and religious leaders. We can’t throw them away at this difficult time,” he said.
On his part, the Christian Chaplain of the centre, Mr George Adeniran, appealed to the government to engage workshop trainers to train inmates on vocational skills.
Adeniran also called on churches to create programmes for brethren to discharge as certified ministers.
He also solicited for support on facelift and renovation of the chapel for inmates to be properly fed with the gospel and morals.
The chaplain also said the inmates need provisions like toothpaste, brush, washing and bath soaps as well foot wears.
He commended the efforts of philanthropists like Tuyil Pharmaceuticals, Peace Standard and other individuals for their consistent support.
The Public Relations Officer, Nigeria Correction Service, Kwara Command, SC Philip Adegbulugbe, also urged the public to support the inmates who aspire to further their education.
Adegbulugbe said about 20 inmates were studying hard to enroll for external exams but lack financial support.
He also disclosed that four inmates who sat for NABTEB and GCE examinations were successful and made excellent results.
“The inmates need support to further their education. The four of them who enrolled for NABTEB performed excellently.
“Almost 20 of them are now studying hard to write next year’s external Exams if they see sponsor and support. We call on the public to help them in whatever way to pursue their dream,” he said.
The carol was organised by General Christian Fellowship (GCF) and attended by church representatives across the state.
The event was filled with special features, including songs and drama ministrations, testimonies by inmates and invited guests.
Special prayers were offered for the inmates by Pastor Emmanuel Tinuoye of Redeemed Christian Church of God, while Catchist Peter Opadokun prayed for Nigeria Corrections and the nation.