In attendance when we started the exercise with prayers and worship songs, we had 105 total number of inmates, staff, and chaplains/volunteers. Medically we bought 60 reading glasses and 55 were dispensed for both inmates and staff; medicines were also given to everyone who attended.
Thi ministry in Nigeria is under the leadership of Chaplain Nsibiet N. Matthew. They forecasted the needs and challenges of different facilities to compassionate-minded friends and ministries that teamed up with him and provided various assistance to meet these needs of our prisoners in Nigeria.
We noticed in our Bible studies that most of the prisoners could not read the Bible and so our chaplains and volunteers went ahead to find out the problems. It was then that we realized that many of them have eye problems that hindered them from reading the Scriptures.
Today, it was a great joy and happiness among the inmates and prison staff at Ikot Abasi prison that -Good News Jail & Prison Ministry Nig. Inc. visited this facility with a group of medical teams for free eye tests, free medicines, and free reading glasses to both staff and prisoners.
This took place on August 11th, 2021.
Testimonies from prisoners, warders and wardress’s from this event.
- Emmanuel Otu (a prisoner): I am very happy that this program came and I got my glasses and drugs. I was among those inmates who have real problem on how to read the Bible. Now I have been tested, drugs and glass have been given to me freely. Thank you for coming to solve my problem.
- Esop Utit (a prisoner): I am working in the tailoring department in Ikot Abasi prison, and I had vision problems as I would sew but did not know what to do or where to go until I heard from the authority that Good News is coming to the facility in a very special way. I have received my glass with eye drop medicine after several tests. Now I can see well. Thank you.
- Reuben Ekong (a prisoner): I give all glory to God that my sight problems are over – I can read my Bible and other related materials. Thank you wonderful and caring sponsors.
- Emem Essien (female staff): This ministry has been assisting us in many ways. We are here to continue to support and give access to them as they minister to our prisoners. I did receive my own reading glass, etc. I am well now. God bless you all.
- Udo Akpan (male staff): I want to especially thank Good News for always been available not only in preaching to inmates but also meeting the physical needs of our prisoners. I am blessed by this organization with a new glass and drugs. God in heaven will not fail to bless and meet you all at different times of your needs. We will continue to do our very best to support the ministry so that you can continue to minister to the inmates. Thank you.
We will not fail to conduct the same outreach to other facilities that have great needs as the Lord provides resources. Thank you very much.
In conclusion, we say a big thank you for your faithful prayers and supports that enable us to get these done in this prison. Prisoners can now read the Bible and can see clearly – Praise the Lord!
