The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has launched a landmark free health insurance enrolment and medical outreach for inmates across correctional facilities in the FCT, with over 1,500 inmates expected to benefit.
The programme, flagged off at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kuje, Abuja, marks the first time inmates are being formally enrolled into the FCT Health Insurance Scheme under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund.
The initiative will also be extended to correctional centres in Gwagwalada and Suleja.
Speaking at the flag-off, Mandate Secretary, Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, said the intervention aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the principle of Universal Health Coverage, which ensures inclusive access to healthcare.
She explained that inmates enrolled under the scheme would receive free consultations, laboratory tests, radiology services, emergency care, surgeries and essential medications, stressing that incarceration should not deny individuals access to healthcare.
Dr. Fasawe added that the outreach also included National Identification Number (NIN) registration to support proper enrolment and record integration into the health insurance system.
She noted that inmates were sensitised on hygiene, disease prevention and the importance of health insurance, while also receiving encouragement to remain hopeful and focus on reintegration into society after their sentences.
During the visit, she engaged inmates, supported vocational activities within the facility and purchased inmate-made items such as sandals, books, liquid soap and bags. She also made cash donations to the fashion training unit.
She assured that the clinic within the custodial centre would receive continuous supply of drugs and medical consumables, while steps were underway to strengthen and accredit the facility’s medical centre.
The outreach provided a range of services including blood pressure and blood glucose checks, malaria testing and treatment, eye examinations, consultations and distribution of prescribed drugs.
Officials said over 550 inmates were screened for hypertension, diabetes and malaria, more than 380 prescriptions were issued, over 230 inmates received eye screenings, with over 130 given corrective glasses, while about 250 inmates completed NIN capture and health insurance enrolment.
Deputy Comptroller of the Kuje Correctional Centre, Rasheed Ogundare, described the initiative as unprecedented, noting it was the first comprehensive government-led healthcare intervention for inmates in the facility.
Inmates expressed appreciation through songs and prayers as they received medical attention and support services.
