The Akwa Ibom State Security Trust Fund (AKSTF) has promised to work closely with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCS) to improve the correctional system and help rehabilitate offenders in the state.
The Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Correctional Service in Akwa Ibom, DSC Richard Metong, made this known in a statement released in Uyo on Friday. He said the partnership was discussed during a courtesy visit by the Executive Secretary of AKSTF, retired Colonel Kingsley Umoh, to the State Controller of Corrections, CC Theophilus N. Okoka.
Metong said Colonel Umoh explained that the purpose of the visit was to learn more about the activities of the Command and identify areas where the Trust Fund could offer support.
Umoh said the Akwa Ibom State Security Trust Fund was created to raise funds and support security agencies in the state so they can improve public safety and strengthen security.
He also praised the Nigerian Correctional Service for its efforts in keeping the public safe, helping offenders change for the better, and supporting the justice system.
In his response, the State Controller of Corrections, CC Okoka, thanked the Executive Secretary for the visit and appreciated the Trust Fund for its continued support to security agencies in the state.
He explained that the main duties of the Nigerian Correctional Service include keeping inmates safely in custody, providing for their welfare, helping them reform, rehabilitating them, preparing them to return to society, and carrying out non-custodial programmes for eligible offenders.
CC Okoka said working together with stakeholders is important to meet the operational and infrastructure needs of the Command and improve rehabilitation programmes that will help reduce crime and make the state safer.
Both sides agreed to continue working together to strengthen security, improve correctional facilities, and support the rehabilitation and successful return of offenders to society in Akwa Ibom State.
