Writing by Aminu Dalhatu;Editing by Abubakar Hamza.
Controller of the Nigeria Correctional Service, Zamfara State Command, Murtala Muhammad Haruna, has called for the enrollment of inmates into the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) to ensure consistent access to quality healthcare services.
He made the call during a courtesy visit to the Zamfara State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nafisa Muhammad Maradun, in Gusau.
Haruna said the initiative aligns with the vision of the Controller General of the Nigeria Correctional Service and is aimed at improving the welfare of inmates across custodial centres.
The Controller stressed the need to upgrade the Correctional Service Clinic at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Gusau, and to provide adequate medical equipment and essential drugs to meet the increasing healthcare needs of inmates.
Murtala Mohammed Haruna noted that, the move complements President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on enhancing the welfare of all Nigerians, including those in custody.
In a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, Mustapha Abubakar, the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the Correctional Service and the State Ministry of Health to improve healthcare delivery for inmates across Zamfara’s custodial facilities.
Responding, Dr. Nafisat Muhammad Maradun commended the Correctional Service for its commitment to the welfare of inmates and the protection of public safety.
She said Governor Dauda Lawal had already procured the medical items and equipment promised during his recent visit to the Gusau Correctional Facility.
According to her, the procured drugs will soon be handed over to the Command, while the equipment will be installed once the clinic upgrade is completed.
The Commissioner assured the Controller of the Ministry’s readiness, under the leadership of Governor Dauda Lawal, to partner with the Correctional Service in improving healthcare delivery.
She added that the collaboration would cover technical support for renovations, facility upgrades, and the NHIA enrollment process.
Rel/Aminu Dalhatu.
