Niger Delta
NDRA hails federal government on garment and shoe factory in Niger delta
The Niger Delta Rights Advocates (NDRA) has expressed support for the recent opening of a garment and shoe factory in Abia State, one of the nine states in the Niger Delta. They believe the successful launch of this project has uplifted the spirits of local youth and will benefit both the local and national economy, potentially saving taxpayers millions in costs associated with outfitting correctional services personnel.
In a statement, NDRA Chairman Bright Ngolo noted that the new factory, established by the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS) in partnership with Erojim Nigeria Limited, marks a significant step toward empowering and rehabilitating inmates. He highlighted that this initiative offers them skills necessary for reintegration into society, addressing long-standing issues within the correctional system. Ngolo also mentioned a recent furniture showroom opened by NCoS in Borno State as part of this positive trend.
The NDRA called for increased budget allocations for the NCoS to enhance its rehabilitation efforts for inmates. They urged the Federal Government and National Assembly to support the ongoing improvements in custodial facilities by providing more funding.
Ngolo emphasized that government agencies can effectively transform citizens’ lives through initiatives like these factories, which will provide vocational training to inmates, equipping them with essential skills for future employment. He further suggested that to combat rising crime among youth, the government should expand vocational training programs, which would help reduce the number of young people entering the correctional system.