The Federal Government has announced the hiring of 50 doctors and 100 nurses to tackle the shortage of healthcare workers in correctional centres nationwide. This decision aims to improve medical services for inmates and ensure they receive proper healthcare.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, shared this update in Abuja during a meeting with Ali Mohammed Ali, Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), and his team.
As part of additional measures, the Ministry of Interior secured approval for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to assign medical doctors to correctional centres during their service year.
To further address the healthcare gap, the Minister’s aide, Mr. Alao Babatunde, announced that medical workers in the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) can now serve beyond their retirement age. This step will provide temporary relief until new workers are hired.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo stated that the recruitment of doctors and nurses would be continuous to maintain improved healthcare in correctional facilities.
In an update on facility improvements, he announced that renovations at Kuje Correctional Centre are complete. He highlighted major upgrades, including better cells, water supply, and medical facilities.
“The improvements cover everything from cells to hospitals. We are ensuring that the President’s efforts reach every part of the system,” he said.
The Minister praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for focusing on long-term solutions to challenges in the correctional system.
Additionally, Dr. Tunji-Ojo revealed plans to open a paramilitary academy similar to the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). The academy will offer degree programs to train young officers for national security roles.
“We need a school where students can enroll through UTME and graduate as skilled officers,” he stated.
On visa reforms, the Minister announced that all Nigerian visa applications would be processed online, with decisions issued within 48 to 72 hours.
Speaking on national security, he said the government is introducing a Guard Management System to improve private security regulation through automation.
The Minister credited President Tinubu’s support for enabling these reforms, which aim to create a stronger, more efficient correctional and security system.