84‑year‑old retired teacher Eunice Fowowe says her husband’s sudden death while they were preparing for a prison visit inspired her to become a prison minister, a role she now fulfills across several correctional facilities in Nigeria.
According to Fowowe, her husband died unexpectedly just as the couple were getting ready to travel to a prison where they intended to volunteer. The loss, she explained, prompted her to honour his memory by turning her grief into service to inmates.
Drawing on her long career in education, Fowowe began visiting prisons to offer spiritual guidance, lead prayers and provide moral support to prisoners. She described the work as “a calling that gives purpose to my days,” noting that she now spends much of her time in the company of inmates, listening to their stories and sharing encouragement.
In Nigeria, prison ministries often aim to address the spiritual and emotional needs of a population that faces overcrowding and limited access to counselling. Ministers like Fowowe typically organise Bible study groups, conduct one‑on‑one counseling sessions and liaise with prison officials to improve inmates’ welfare.
Despite her advanced age, Fowowe remains active in the ministry, travelling to multiple facilities and coordinating with volunteers. She hopes her example will inspire others, especially seniors, to contribute to community service and support the rehabilitation of prisoners.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>