Rev. Jacob Mojolagbe of the 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 asked the inmates not to 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 the church to take the gospel to the correctional centres and 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, also 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.
Cleric tasks inmates to develop skills, showcase talents