Nigerian Correctional Service to Enroll Inmates in NHIS

The Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Nwakuche, announced on Wednesday that discussions are at an advanced stage to enroll inmates in the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to improve healthcare delivery across custodial centres in Nigeria. This announcement was made during the flag-off of the second phase of the 2026 nationwide distribution of essential drugs and medicaments to commands and custodial facilities.

The initiative aims to strengthen inmate healthcare, particularly focusing on the welfare of female inmates, mental health services, and access to quality medical care. Nwakuche noted that while some states have already enrolled inmates in their health insurance schemes, efforts are underway to achieve nationwide coverage under the National Health Insurance Authority framework.

The distribution of essential medicines is part of a broader healthcare reform agenda aimed at enhancing medical services and supporting inmate rehabilitation, with particular attention to the unique healthcare needs of female inmates.