The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has launched the second-quarter nationwide distribution of essential drugs and medical supplies to custodial centres, reaffirming its commitment to improving inmates’ healthcare, mental wellbeing and overall welfare.
Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, said the initiative is part of ongoing reforms under the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, aimed at providing humane custody, strengthening healthcare services and supporting the rehabilitation of inmates. He added that the service is also prioritising the health needs of female inmates and expanding access to health insurance.
According to Nwakuche, efforts are underway to enrol inmates into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), with several states already providing health insurance coverage while discussions continue to achieve nationwide inclusion under the National Health Insurance Authority.
Correctional officials said the quarterly distribution of medicines will help reduce disease outbreaks, improve access to treatment and strengthen healthcare delivery across custodial centres. They also assured that a monitoring system is in place to ensure the drugs are used transparently and solely for inmates’ healthcare.Correctional officials said the quarterly distribution of medicines will help reduce disease outbreaks, improve access to treatment and strengthen healthcare delivery across custodial centres. They also assured that a monitoring system is in place to ensure the drugs are used transparently and solely for inmates’ healthcare.
Leave a comment