The wife of Akwa Ibom governor, Mrs Martha Emmanuel has urged inmates of the Ikot Ekpene Prisons not to give up in life, irrespective of the situation in which they found themselves.

She gave the advice on Wednesday when she visited the prison to donate some food items and relief materials.

The governor’s wife said her visit was part of the social responsibility of her pet project to add value to lives of people.

Reports indicated that she recently launched a pet project, Family Empowerment and Youth Reorientation Program (FEYReP). She urged the inmates to put their trust in God, who had not given up on them.

“I understand your predicament here but I beg you not to give up in life, rather, hold fast to the word of God, as He is God of second chance.

“Life behind bars does not mean that you cannot be productive citizens again and I advise you to imbibe the ‘Dakkada’ (arise) spirit of believing in your greatness.

“On my part as mother of the state, I will always endeavour to keep in touch with you,” she said. Earlier, the Deputy Controller in-charge, Ikot Ekpene Prisons, Mr C.O. Mbaocha, highlighted some challenges facing the centre.

He said that they include servicing of the existing boreholes and lack of water tanks, urging the government to assist in overcoming the problems.

Mbaocha, who thanked the governor’s wife for her benevolence, prayed God to reward her for rendering assistance to the needy.