NGO urges support for ex-inmates

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The Centre for Legal Support and Inmate Rehabilitation has celebrated its fifth anniversary with the inauguration of what it describes as Nigeria’s first comprehensive Reentry Guide, designed to support ex-inmates as they reintegrate into society.

The commemorative event, held in Ikeja, Lagos, brought together government officials, correctional officers, civil society actors, and beneficiaries of the organisation’s programmes.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Attorney General of Oyo State, Oyewo Oyelowo, who chaired the occasion, described the anniversary as “a celebration of five years of restoring hope and expanding pathways for second chances.”

He called for stronger public support for rehabilitation initiatives, emphasising the need to provide justice-impacted individuals with opportunities to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society.

Also speaking, CELSIR’s Executive Director, Joke Aladesanmi, attributed the organisation’s achievements to the strength of its partnerships.

“Our work thrives because of strong partnerships. Together with correctional authorities, civil society, international networks, and our generous donors, we continue to prove that rehabilitation works, reentry can succeed, and every individual deserves the chance to rebuild their story,” she said.

A major highlight of the anniversary was the unveiling of the Reentry Guide by the Controller of Corrections, Lagos Command, Daramola George. According to CELSIR, the guide is funded by the University of Illinois.

The event also featured award presentations to outstanding officers of the Nigeria Correctional Service in recognition of their support, as well as acknowledgements of long-standing partners and donors. Guests heard reintegration testimonies from beneficiaries during a panel session, alongside a documentary detailing CELSIR’s work over the past five years.

Other highlights included the presentation of an entrepreneurial grant of N300,000, a fundraising appeal to support ongoing rehabilitation programmes, and a tour of the Ruby House Christmas Sales, showcasing products made by formerly incarcerated women from CELSIR’s halfway home.

Naomi was trained in the Yaba College of Technology, Yaba, and the University of Lagos, Akoka. She writes crime and court stories for PUNCH

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