By Amina Samuel,Kaduna
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kaduna State chapter, on Wednesday paid a humanitarian visit to the female wing of the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kaduna, donating essential items to over 120 inmates.
The visit, which formed part of the association’s outreach activities, aimed to show love, care, and encouragement to the women while motivating them to face their challenges with hope and resilience.
Chairperson of the chapter, Comrade Sahura Maidoki, said the outreach was designed to give the inmates a sense of belonging and to amplify their voices.
According to her, the gesture was inspired by the global commemoration of the World Children’s Day, noting that every Nigerian had a responsibility to support vulnerable groups in society.
She said items such as detergents, tissue papers, diapers, and slippers were donated to help the women maintain proper hygiene and dignity.
Maidoki assured that NAWOJ would work with relevant stakeholders to address some of the inmates’ minor cases.
“We have listened to their stories, and we plan to collaborate with bodies like FIDA to advocate for government intervention, especially in cases related to debts,” she said.
Responding, the Assistant Controller of the centre, Lawal Talle, commended NAWOJ for the visit, describing it as a morale booster for the inmates.
He disclosed that the centre, established in 1962, was focused on reforming offenders through education and skills acquisition.
However, Talle lamented congestion in the facility, revealing that 1,578 inmates currently occupy a space designed for 547.
He said 1,197 of them were awaiting trial, and urged journalists to continue highlighting issues affecting custodial centres to attract government attention and improve conditions.