Ngene Umuoji Foundation
In an outstanding act of generosity, the Ngene Umuoji Foundation, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged individuals, has extended support to over 2,000 inmates at the Kirikiri Male and Female Custodial Facilities in Apapa, Lagos. This initiative aimed to give the inmates a sense of belonging and allow them to partake in the Eid-Al-Fitr celebrations despite their incarceration.
During the visit, the foundation donated essential items, including cooked and uncooked rice, footwear, soap, soft drinks, perfume, biscuits, cleaning supplies, and cash. The gesture was met with heartfelt gratitude, as the inmates engaged in prayers and songs, expressing their appreciation for the act of kindness.
At the time of the NGO’s outreach, the Maximum Security Custodial Facility housed 2,121 inmates, while the Female Custodial Facility had over 300 detainees. In addition to distributing food and essential supplies, the foundation also supported a music album produced by some of the inmates, further encouraging rehabilitation through creative expression.
The CEO of Ngene Umuoji Foundation, Chief Chuka Christian Mekaowulu, urged the inmates to utilize the empowerment and educational opportunities available within the correctional system to rebuild their lives.
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“We are here in the spirit of the Sallah celebration to share love and hope with our fellow Nigerians in prison,” Mekaowulu stated. “Some of them have been here for many years, and this visit is a way to remind them that they are not forgotten. While some inmates may be guilty of crimes, many are simply victims of circumstances, lacking the resources or representation to defend themselves.”
Chief Mekaowulu encouraged the inmates to remain patient and trust that justice would prevail in due time. He also emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and working towards personal growth.
Addressing Nigerian youths, he advised, “Hard work, discipline, and obedience to the law are the surest ways to avoid ending up in prison. The two greatest powers in the world are God and the government—no one should take either for granted.”
Expressing his views on the country’s economic conditions, he acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to improve Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.
“Though times are tough, we must exercise patience and remain hopeful. The president is making significant efforts, and we must support him in his mission to create a better Nigeria,” he added.
In an emotional appeal, several inmates, including 1,006 awaiting trial, urged the visitors to advocate for their release. Many shared heartbreaking stories of spending decades in incarceration, some having pursued higher education and acquired valuable skills during their time behind bars.
One of the executive members of the NGO, Mr. Charles Albert, was deeply moved by their plight. “Hearing them plead for their freedom was overwhelming. If I had the opportunity to meet with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu or President Tinubu, I would advocate for them. However, since I do not have that privilege, I entrust their fate to God.”
The inmates also appealed to society for compassion and acceptance upon their release, expressing their determination to reintegrate and contribute positively to their communities.
Through this initiative, the Ngene Umuoji Foundation has not only brought temporary relief but has also ignited a conversation about prison reform, justice, and rehabilitation. Their efforts underscore the importance of compassion, second chances, and the need for societal support in reintegrating ex-offenders into the community.
