In a significant move to bolster healthcare within the nation’s correctional facilities, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 50 doctors and 100 nurses. This initiative aims to address the pressing medical needs of inmates across various correctional centres throughout the country.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who also revealed that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) would now assign medical doctors to correctional centres for their service year. This step underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of vulnerable individuals within society, ensuring they receive adequate medical attention.
Alao Babatunde, the minister’s special assistant for media and publicity, issued a statement detailing these developments. Additionally, the Minister disclosed that existing medical staff within the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) would have the option to extend their service beyond the typical retirement age to help mitigate staffing shortages in the short term.
Before Dr Tunji-Ojo’s appointment, states like Rivers had been grappling with significant deficiencies in medical personnel for inmate care, highlighting the urgent need for this intervention. The recruitment initiative is not only a response to these challenges but is also expected to alleviate unemployment concerns, as it will be an ongoing exercise.
In a further update, the Minister proudly announced the completion of renovations at the Kuje Correctional Centre. This facility has undergone a remarkable transformation, featuring upgraded cells, an improved water supply, and a modernised hospital. These enhancements align with the President’s vision for sustainable solutions to long-standing issues within the correctional system.
“It’s entirely new—from the cells to the water supply, to the hospital and beyond. The President’s focus is on constructing a system that endures, providing immediate solutions to current needs while laying the groundwork for future challenges,” the Minister emphasised.
Moreover, Dr Tunji-Ojo has approved the establishment of a National Paramilitary Academy, a degree-awarding institution designed to train young Nigerians in paramilitary disciplines. The academy will offer a structured programme, enabling students to graduate as officers ready to contribute to national security following their successful completion of the University Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).
In an effort to streamline processes, the Minister revealed that all Nigerian visa applications would now be handled online, with approvals or rejections anticipated within 48 to 72 hours.
On the security front, the Minister discussed ongoing initiatives to enhance the Private Guard sector (PSCs), including the implementation of a Guard Management System (GMS) to automate and improve operational processes, thereby strengthening Nigeria’s security infrastructure.
Dr Tunji-Ojo expressed his gratitude for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering support in achieving the objectives of all agencies under his Ministry, marking a promising step forward in the nation’s approach to correctional and security challenges.
