The new Assistant Controller General (ACG) of Corrections, Prisca Oku, has appealed to the Enugu State government and philanthropists to assist in resuscitating the 93-year-old Borstal Training Institution, Ngwo, near Enugu.

The Borstal Training Institution, Ngwo, which is the only borstal facility in the South-East and South-South regions, was established in 1932 by the colonial government.

It was fully functional until the Nigeria Civil War in 1966.

Ms Oku, who is the Zonal Coordinator in charge of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Zone M, Enugu, said on Wednesday that the service was working to ensure the resuscitation of the institution before the end of 2025.

The ACG, who was on a visit to the institution, said that the facility has two classrooms, offices, a hostel and a kitchen.

Ms Oku disclosed that a philanthropist had undertaken the electrification of the institution and donated 10 solar streetlights, water tanks, a complete kitchenware set, a gas cylinder and an oven, among other things.

She said that the NCoS had already deployed staff to the institution comprising a Controller of Corrections, 25 correctional staff and 16 armed squad officers for the take-off of the facility.

Ms Oku, who is in charge of NCoS commands in Anambra, Ebonyi and Enugu states, said, “We all have seen what is on ground and the gaps left. NCoS urges state governments in the South-East, especially Enugu State; NGOs; faith-based organisations; foundations; corporate bodies and philanthropists to assist us in getting the place functional.

“When this place starts to function, children here will be engaged in educational, vocational training and other standard procedures, including aftercare and follow-up care as enshrined in the NCoS Act. As it is, both the borstal homes in Abeokuta (South-West), Ilorin (North Central) and Kaduna (North West) are running, but the oldest one in Enugu (for South-East and South-South) is dysfunctional.”

An Assistant Controller of Corrections, Bernard Nweke, said that there were some colonial buildings on the grounds of the institution still strong but needed a modern touch and renovations, fittings and furnishings.

Mr Nweke said, “We have a challenge and need for constant water to cater for the number of children that will flood the institution as soon as it is relaunched. We also need a sickbay/clinic for healthcare purposes and a workshop for children who have a flair for craftsmanship, as well as worship centres (a church and a mosque).’’

The officer added that adequate security has been provided and a high perimeter fence to prevent breakout by unruly children that might be brought to be reformed in the institution.

Recall that the Ministry of Interior and NCoS headquarters had directed NCoS Custodial Centres nationwide to ensure that courts stop sending juveniles, those below 18 years old, to custodial centres nationwide. 

(NAN)