His Eminence, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, on Christmas Day visited inmates of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, where he shared a message of hope, humility, and renewed faith.
Welcoming the Cardinal, the Federal Capital Territory Controller of Corrections, Mr. Christopher Peter Jen, described custodial centres as places of transformation, noting that “those who are going to be better are in custodial centres.”
He encouraged inmates not to lose hope, describing them as individuals with untapped potential awaiting positive redirection.
Mr. Jen highlighted ongoing vocational training and educational programmes within the Centre, aimed at total rehabilitation and smooth reintegration of inmates into society upon release. He expressed appreciation to Cardinal Onaiyekan for his annual Christmas visit, stressing that beyond spiritual upliftment, the Centre also values the Cardinal’s continued moral and material support in sustaining the gains recorded so far.
In his address, Cardinal Onaiyekan urged inmates to remain hopeful and steadfast in faith. “Do not lose hope. You are not forgotten. Christmas is a reminder that God’s gift to humanity is greater than any challenge,” he said.
The Cardinal also commended the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for ongoing reforms in the correctional system, particularly in the area of infrastructure development. However, he expressed concern over the high number of awaiting-trial inmates, calling for faster justice delivery to decongest custodial facilities.
Reinforcing the Controller’s message of hope, Cardinal Onaiyekan reminded all present of the true meaning of the season. “Christmas is God’s gift to humanity. Let us be humble, fair to all, and pray for our country. Rejoice, for the Saviour of the world is born,” he said.
The visit featured prayers for the peace of Nigeria and the successful rehabilitation of inmates. Cardinal Onaiyekan’s annual outreach continues to underscore the power of compassion, faith, and solidarity in transforming lives within custodial centres.
Signed:
DSC A.S. Duza
Public Relations Officer
Nigerian Correctional Service
FCT Command
[email protected]
