The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has extended free healthcare coverage to inmates in correctional facilities across the FCT, with over 1,500 inmates expected to benefit from the initiative.
The programme, flagged off at the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre, marks the first official enrolment of inmates into the FCT Health Insurance Scheme under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund.
Speaking at the launch, Mandate Secretary of the Health Services and Environment Secretariat, Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, said the initiative reflects the FCTA’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage and inclusive healthcare for all residents, regardless of their status.
Under the scheme, inmates will receive access to medical consultations, laboratory tests, surgeries, emergency care, essential drugs, eye care services, and other healthcare interventions at no cost.
The initiative, introduced on the directive of FCT Minister, also featured medical outreach services, NIN registration, health education, and support for vocational training programmes within the custodial centre.
More than 550 inmates were screened for hypertension, diabetes, and malaria, while over 130 inmates received corrective eyeglasses during the outreach.
Officials described the intervention as a major step toward restoring dignity, improving inmate welfare, and strengthening healthcare delivery within correctional facilities.
