SOL Media Bridge has graduated 75 inmates and four correctional facility staff following a six-month photography and videography training programme conducted at the Kirikiri Maximum Custodial Centre and Ikoyi Correctional Centre in Lagos. All 79 participants received two certificates each: one from SOL Media Bridge and a Federal Government Trade Test Certificate.
The programme, led by the organisation’s Managing Director, Sam Oluwapile, combined theoretical instruction with practical training to equip participants with creative skills that could support employment, self-employment and reintegration into society.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Oluwapile said the initiative was inspired by his desire to give back to society and contribute to nation-building by creating opportunities for inmates to acquire practical, marketable skills. He explained that pursuing Federal Government Trade Test certification was a deliberate step towards improving the graduates’ prospects of securing employment and building sustainable livelihoods after their release.
“Everyone deserves an opportunity to learn, grow and build a better future. I wanted to contribute to society in a meaningful way by equipping these inmates with practical skills they can use to become self-reliant and productive members of society,” he said.
Beyond the training, SOL Media Bridge upgraded the computer room to support continued learning within the correctional facilities. The organisation remodelled the room, repaired four desktop computers, purchased five new computers and provided fans and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) units, alongside relevant softwares. The improvements are intended to provide a more functional learning environment where participants can continue developing their photography, videography and digital skills.
Oluwapile expressed appreciation to the correctional authorities for granting access to the facilities and supporting the initiative. He particularly acknowledged the Controller of Corrections, Lagos State Command, Mr Daramola George, and the Deputy Controllers of both facilities overseeing the centres. He also thanked the sponsors, partners and individuals whose contributions helped make the programme possible.
The Controller of Corrections, Lagos State Command, Mr Daramola George, commended SOL Media Bridge for investing in the development of inmates and congratulated the graduates on completing the six-month training programme. He highlighted the discipline, patience and commitment required to complete the training, encouraging the graduates to apply their newly acquired skills productively as they prepare for life beyond incarceration.
“Discipline, patience and commitment are essential to personal growth. I commend the graduates for completing this training and encourage them to put their new skills to good use as they work towards a more productive future,” he said.
Representing the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogundele, Mr Yaya Onagbesan described the initiative as impressive and indicated that the ministry would explore possible support for inmates, particularly in addressing their needs as they prepare to leave the correctional facilities.
The representative of the late Most Supreme Apostle Matthew Omotayo Owotuga Foundation, Mr Nelson Ogede, reaffirmed the foundation’s commitment to supporting less privileged people and contributing to national development. He congratulated the graduates and encouraged more individuals and organisations to support similar initiatives, noting that contributions could take different forms, including financial assistance, mentorship, teaching and the sharing of professional skills.
“You do not need millions of naira to make a difference. Your time, knowledge, professional skills or financial resources can help support an initiative and improve someone’s life. Every contribution counts when the goal is to make our country better,” the representative said.
Also represented at the ceremony was the Chairman of Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area, Hon. Bola Oladunjoye. His message was delivered by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Ademola Afolabi, who congratulated Sam Oluwapile and the graduates while acknowledging the value of initiatives that promote skills acquisition and create opportunities for positive change.
The ceremony was attended by correctional officials, government representatives, military officers, community leaders, sponsors, partners, family members and other dignitaries who gathered to celebrate the graduates’ achievements.
SOL Media Bridge continues to advance youth development through skills acquisition, practical training and initiatives that create opportunities for young people to build their capacities, improve their employability and become self-reliant. This initiative reflects its broader commitment to empowering young people across society with the knowledge and skills to pursue meaningful opportunities and contribute to national development.