Caritas Nigeria on 16 December began her Prison Apostolate across correctional centres in the country, marking a practical expression of the Jubilee Year of Hope. Guided by a strong mission to uphold human dignity, the initiative aims to bring hope, medical care, and empowerment opportunities to persons in correctional custody.
The programme kicked off at the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre in Abuja, led by the Abuja team under Dr. Godwin Ukel, Director of Internal Audit, and supported by the blessings and encouragement of the Executive Secretary/CEO, Rev. Fr Peter Audu. Upon arrival, the team was warmly received by the facility’s Public Relations Officer and Mohammed Juta, Officer in Charge, signalling openness to partnership and collaboration.
At the centre, Caritas Nigeria conducted a medical outreach that reached more than 223 inmates, addressing health needs and offering compassionate engagement. The team also visited the centre’s skill empowerment zones, where they observed inmates actively involved in programmes such as carpentry, tailoring, building construction, fish and poultry farming, and digital literacy training. These initiatives highlighted the resilience, creativity, and determination of inmates working towards self-improvement and reintegration.
Among the inspiring encounters was a meeting with an inmate who has authored multiple books and completed his graduate studies while in custody—an outstanding example of the transformative power of education and hope.
Caritas Nigeria expressed deep appreciation to the correctional management for their cooperation throughout the visit. Their support reflects a shared commitment to advancing human dignity, offering pathways to transformation, and promoting new beginnings for individuals in correctional custody.
