NCoS deepens healthcare reforms, strengthens mental health and female inmate support.

The Controller-General of Corrections (CGC), Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to improving healthcare delivery for inmates, with special focus on the welfare of female inmates, mental health services for vulnerable inmates, and their enrolment into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).
Nwakuche made the commitment during the flag-off of the second phase of the 2026 nationwide distribution of essential drugs and medicaments to Commands and custodial facilities across the country. He said the initiative reflects the Service’s determination to provide humane custody and quality healthcare in line with the provisions of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019.
The Controller-General described female inmates as one of the most vulnerable groups in custodial facilities, noting that his administration has prioritised their unique healthcare needs, particularly menstrual hygiene management and other gender-specific sanitary requirements, to safeguard their dignity and wellbeing.
He also disclosed that the Service is intensifying efforts to secure the inclusion of inmates in the National Health Insurance Scheme to guarantee sustainable access to quality healthcare across custodial centres. According to him, while some state governments have already enrolled inmates in their respective health insurance schemes, discussions are at an advanced stage to achieve nationwide coverage under the National Health Insurance Authority framework.
Nwakuche explained that the quarterly distribution of essential medicines is part of a broader healthcare reform programme aimed at strengthening medical services, reducing the burden of disease, improving mental health support, and advancing the rehabilitation and reformation of inmates.
Also speaking, the Assistant Controller-General of Corrections in charge of Medical Services, Glory Essien, described the nationwide distribution of essential drugs as a major milestone in the Service’s ongoing healthcare reform agenda.