The Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, has called on inmates at the Kuje Custodial Centre to use their time in incarceration for personal transformation and self-improvement.
Onaiyekan made the appeal during his annual Yuletide visit to the facility, where he celebrated with the inmates and shared messages of hope, joy, and redemption.
In a statement released by Mr. Samson Duza, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), FCT Command, the Cardinal encouraged inmates to see their current situation as a temporary setback rather than a permanent state.
“Your current situation is not a definitive end. You must brace up by taking advantage of this time to develop yourselves,” Cardinal Onaiyekan stated.
He further stressed that many great individuals have risen to prominence after enduring difficult circumstances, while urging the inmates to remain hopeful and determined.
The theme of the 2024 Yuletide celebration for the inmates was “Hope, Joy, and Happiness.” Cardinal Onaiyekan highlighted the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, regardless of the challenges they face.
“You are not defined by your current circumstances. I urge you to see your incarceration as a preparatory ground for future success,” he said.
The Cardinal expressed sympathy for the inmates’ plight, and assured them that they were not forgotten.
He added, “I wish I had the power to free all of you, but I believe many of you will be discharged before the next Christmas celebration.”
The Controller of Corrections for the FCT Command, Olatubosun Ajibogun, represented by the Deputy Controller of Corrections, Mr. Oguama Ambrose, also addressed the inmates, and urged them to view their incarceration as a phase of preparation for greatness.
Ajibogun praised Cardinal Onaiyekan for his commitment to visiting the custodial centre annually, noting that his presence served as a source of inspiration and hope for the inmates.
“We appreciate your commitment to visiting the custodial centre every year. Your presence is a source of inspiration and hope for the inmates,” Ajibogun said.
Speaking on behalf of the inmates, Sunday Chukwukelu expressed gratitude for the Cardinal’s continuous acts of kindness and encouragement. The inmates described the visit as a reminder of their worth and a motivation to turn their lives around.
The celebration featured musical performances, dramatic presentations, and exchange of gifts, which created a festive atmosphere for the inmates.