Anambra State First Lady, Dr Nonye Soludo, has donated relief materials, vocational equipment and financial support to rehabilitated inmates at the Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Centre in Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area of the state.

The donation was made during her visit to the centre, where nine inmates who had successfully completed their rehabilitation programme were graduated and reunited with their families.

The beneficiaries had undergone rehabilitation and vocational training designed to equip them with practical skills and prepare them for independent living after leaving the centre.

As part of the empowerment programme, the beneficiaries received baking equipment, bags of flour and take-off grants to enable them establish small businesses and become self-reliant.

Speaking during the event, Soludo said the development underscored the importance of giving vulnerable persons a second chance to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society.

She noted that rehabilitation should not end with recovery, stressing that beneficiaries also needed opportunities, skills and support to regain their confidence and successfully reintegrate into their communities.

The First Lady commended the management and caregivers at the rehabilitation centre for their dedication to helping residents recover and acquire skills that would enable them live productive lives.

She also encouraged the beneficiaries to make effective use of the opportunities provided to them and remain committed to building a better future.

The Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs Chinyere Esther Onyekesi, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and strengthening programmes focused on rehabilitation, empowerment and reintegration.

The nine beneficiaries were subsequently reunited with their families after being certified medically fit and completing the required rehabilitation programme.