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The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) says it is at an advanced stage of discussions to enrol inmates into the National Health Insurance Scheme as part of efforts to improve healthcare in custodial centres across the country. Controller-General of Corrections, Sylvester Nwakuche, made the disclosure during the launch of the second phase of the 2026 nationwide distribution of essential drugs and medical supplies to correctional facilities.
Nwakuche explained that while some states have already enrolled inmates in their respective state health insurance schemes, the service is working with the National Health Insurance Authority to achieve nationwide coverage. He added that the initiative forms part of broader healthcare reforms aimed at improving access to quality medical care, strengthening mental health support, reducing disease outbreaks, and prioritising the healthcare needs of female inmates.
The Assistant Controller-General in charge of Medical Services, Glory Essien, said the distribution of medicines would improve inmates’ health and reduce the spread of communicable diseases, while the service also unveiled measures to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of pharmaceutical supplies across correctional centres.
