Correctional Service applauds Adeleke over inmate welfare, security reforms

In recognition of ongoing reforms in the correctional system, the Osun State Command of the Nigerian Correctional Service has applauded Governor Ademola Adeleke for his commitment to improving inmate welfare, healthcare, security, and rehabilitation in custodial centres.

The commendation was conveyed in an official letter with Reference No. OSCHQ:401C/VOL.II/21, signed by the Controller of Corrections, Osun State Command, and addressed to Governor Adeleke.

In the letter, the Nigerian Correctional Service praised the governor’s interventions as humane, impactful, and supportive of correctional administration in the state.

According to the Service, Governor Adeleke’s role in facilitating the free enrollment of inmates into the Osun State Health Insurance Scheme, OHIS, has expanded access to quality healthcare services for inmates and strengthened correctional health management within custodial facilities in Osun State.

Part of the letter reads: “We are particularly grateful for your kind assistance in facilitating the free enrollment of inmates into the Osun State Health Insurance Scheme (OHIS).

This laudable intervention has ensured that inmates now have access to high-quality healthcare services, thereby promoting dignity, improved well-being, and effective correctional health management.”

Beyond healthcare, the Correctional Service also acknowledged the governor’s support in strengthening security infrastructure within custodial centres. It specifically cited the raising of the perimeter fence at the Ilesha Custodial Centre, the installation of solar-powered streetlights at the Ilesha and Ile-Ife custodial centres, and the provision of barbed wire on the perimeter fence.

The Service noted that these interventions have significantly enhanced visibility, safety, and operational efficiency within and around the custodial centres, while also improving the protection of lives and property.

The Controller of Corrections further commended Governor Adeleke for his promise to establish Computer-Based Test (CBT)centres at both the Ilesha and Ile-Ife custodial centres, noting that the initiative would boost educational pursuits, digital literacy, and rehabilitation prospects for inmates, while equipping them with skills necessary for successful reintegration into society.

In further recognition of the governor’s contributions, the letter stated: “These interventions collectively demonstrate your unwavering commitment to humane correctional administration, security enhancement, and the rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates. Your Excellency’s compassion and people-oriented governance continue to inspire confidence and gratitude across all sectors.”

Governor Adeleke had earlier demonstrated his administration’s commitment to inmate welfare when he officially flagged off the enrollment of 1,200 inmates into the Osun Health Insurance Scheme at the Ilesa Medium Security Custodial Centre through the Osun State Health Insurance Agency.

Speaking at the event, the governor said inmates, like every other citizen of Osun State and Nigeria as a whole, deserve access to quality healthcare, describing the initiative as part of his administration’s broader commitment to inclusive governance and people-centered healthcare.

Adeleke said the inmate enrollment programme builds on other social interventions already undertaken by his administration, including the free enrollment of over 26,000 pensioners, 10,000 persons with disabilities, and the free eye screening of over 450,000 students, out of which 43,000 were provided corrective glasses, medication, and surgeries at no cost.

The commendation by the Nigerian Correctional Service adds to growing recognition of the Adeleke administration’s efforts to extend social protection, humane governance, and inclusive public service delivery to vulnerable groups across Osun State.