The Controller-General of the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS), Mr Sylvester Nwakuche, has appealed to the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to include inmates in the national health insurance scheme, citing persistent healthcare challenges and preventable deaths among custodial populations.
Nwakuche made the appeal on Monday in Abuja during a courtesy visit to NHIA Director-General, Dr Kelechi Ohiri. He said inmates, as underserved and captive populations, deserve access to quality healthcare like all Nigerian citizens.
The CG, marking one year in office since his appointment by President Bola Tinubu on Dec. 15, 2024, revealed that the NCoS currently has about 81,000 inmates across over 250 custodial facilities nationwide, including women, persons living with disabilities, and babies born in custody.
“One of our major challenges is access to healthcare. Often, treatment is delayed because hospitals demand upfront payment, leading to unfortunate fatalities,” he said, urging NHIA to develop a framework to integrate inmates into its operational framework, whether as part of vulnerable groups or through a suitable insurance package.
Nwakuche also highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate inmates into other national systems, including the National Identification Number (NIN) and potential voting registration, stressing that many inmates are awaiting trial and remain legally presumed innocent.
Responding, NHIA DG Dr Ohiri assured that inmates would be considered a vulnerable population and pledged collaboration with NCoS to create a workable framework for their inclusion. Both agencies plan to form joint teams to commence implementation early next year.
“The present administration is committed to achieving universal health coverage for all Nigerians, with equity as a core principle. We are delighted and look forward to this partnership,” Ohiri said.