The Nigerian Correctional Centre has commended the State Government of Osun for prioritising the reformatory training and welfare of delinquent juveniles.
The Comptroller of Borstal Institute (which is the Juvenile Section of the Nigerian Correctional Centre), Mrs Victoria Fatodu, gave the commendation while receiving the Commissioner of Women, Children and Social Affairs, Barr. Olubukola Olaboopo, during a monitoring round to check on children from Osun State in the facility.
The Comptroller, while noting that Osun State was the first to facilitate such a visit among other states in the country, said Osun government had proven beyond doubts that it was indeed committed to the welfare of its citizens, home and abroad.
She also lauded the ethos of the state, which she said had been exhibited by the children of Osun under remand.
She added that “children from Osun, 28 of them, are distinct in behaviour and doing greatly in their studies.”
Responding on behalf of the state government, Olaboopo said that the Governor Adegboyega Oyetola-led administration in the State of Osun was interested in the welfare of children, regardless of their current circumstances.
According to Olaboopo: “Governor Oyetola is exceptionally empathetic to children’s causes, and that explained why he has ordered this visit to identify with our children under remand, to give them hope and a sense of belonging.
“The government of the State of Osun believes that a number of these children acted out of youthful exuberance, lack of parental care or guidance, and perhaps, out of ignorance. Unfortunately, there is no ignorance in Law.
“The State will not forsake, abandon or neglect them because of their mistakes. As a government, we are convinced that whatever happened that brought them here must not define them or truncate their future.
“It is our hope that they will stay focused on the trainings they are receiving in this facility, which of course is aimed to build them in terms of character and vocation.
“We must commend the authorities of this Institute for the curriculum and manner by which the training is offered,” Olaboopo stated.
