The Federal Government has approved the recruitment of 50 medical doctors and 100 nurses to serve in correctional centres across Nigeria, addressing critical gaps in healthcare for inmates.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the approval on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, in Abuja.
Tunji-Ojo explained that some correctional facilities, including the hospital in Rivers State, previously had no doctors on duty, while centres like Kuje possess surgical-capable equipment.
“The President understands that he is the leader of all Nigerians, including inmates, and has shown care by ensuring adequate medical personnel in correctional facilities,” the minister said.
Tunji-Ojo also highlighted ongoing capacity-building efforts, including “train the trainer” programmes to enhance inmates’ skills and self-empowerment.
“Inmates are trained, graduated, and empowered to train others,” he explained.
He added that the President had increased inmates’ feeding allowance by 50 per cent as part of broader welfare improvements.
The minister called for stronger collaboration with the Ministry of Information to communicate achievements and reforms implemented by the Interior Ministry to the public.
He cited successes in national security initiatives, such as creating mine marshals with the Ministry of Solid Minerals, reducing criminality and protecting critical national assets.
Responding, Minister Idris emphasized the importance of public awareness, pledging to highlight government reforms and ensure Nigerians remain informed about initiatives in correctional centres and other sectors.
This move is expected to enhance healthcare delivery in correctional facilities and improve inmates’ welfare while complementing broader reforms in Nigeria’s prison system.
