October 30, (THEWILL) — The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has announced plans to commence monthly psychiatric evaluations for all inmates in correctional facilities across the country.
NMA Vice President I, Dr. Benjamin Olowojebutu, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja during a courtesy visit to the Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche.
The visit also included the donation of reusable sanitary pads to all female inmates nationwide.
The hygiene and mental health initiative, implemented in partnership with Diatom Impact/Platform Capital, aims to strengthen rehabilitation efforts and promote inmate welfare across Nigeria’s correctional centres.
According to a report by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the psychiatric evaluations, set to begin in November 2025, are designed to enhance access to mental healthcare within prisons and support the reintegration of inmates into society.
Olowojebutu said the initiative would provide essential mental health support, while the sanitary pad distribution seeks to preserve the dignity of female inmates and address long-standing hygiene challenges.
“Today marks a great day for me personally. In July, we met with the investigative panel and heard touching revelations about the condition of inmates, especially the hygiene of women.
“I made a vow that day that NMA would provide sanitary pads to support them,” he said.
He explained that findings from the Association’s engagements showed an urgent need for sustained psychological care and structured psychiatric intervention to improve inmate rehabilitation.
“With our continued collaboration with the NCoS, we are confident that the lives of inmates, both male and female, will improve. Together with our partners at Diatom Impact/Platform Capital, we have resolved to continue being our brothers’ keepers,” Olowojebutu added.
In his response, Controller-General Nwakuche commended the NMA for its sustained partnership and commitment to inmate welfare. He described the initiative as a reflection of professionalism and compassion.
He also lauded Diatom Impact/Platform Capital for establishing an incubation centre at the Kuje Correctional Centre, Abuja, where inmates are being trained and certified in digital skills, including Cisco programmes.
“Our inmates are not the dregs of society. They come from all walks of life and deserve opportunities for rehabilitation. We must continue to involve NGOs and well-meaning Nigerians in improving their quality of life,” Nwakuche said.
Chairman of Diatom Impact/Platform Capital, Dr. Akintoye Akindele, said supporting inmates was a moral obligation, noting that many were in correctional facilities due to circumstances beyond their control.
“Everybody deserves dignity, hope, and a chance at life. It’s an honour to partner with the NMA because they are the real heroes doing the work of nation-building. We must highlight positive stories and support initiatives that uplift our society,” he said.
Akindele added that inmates should be treated as human beings deserving of respect and empowerment.
“Prisoners are human beings first. They are in correctional facilities to learn and become better. We must build a country that treats every life with dignity,” he stated.
The NMA and its partners reaffirmed their commitment to deepening support for correctional reforms, strengthening mental health systems, and promoting humane rehabilitation of inmates across Nigeria.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
