FCT Enrolls Kuje Inmates in Health Insurance

Why this is here: Officials distributed over 130 pairs of corrective eyeglasses to inmates during the medical outreach at the Kuje facility.

The Federal Capital Territory Administration in Nigeria began enrolling over 1,500 inmates in its health insurance scheme at the Kuje Medium Security Custodial Centre. This program marks the first formal inclusion of inmates under the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund.

Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, the Health Services and Environment Secretariat’s Mandate Secretary, launched the initiative at the direction of Minister Nyesom Wike.

The program provides free access to consultations, tests, surgery, emergency care, and medications. Staff registered inmates for National Identification Numbers to facilitate enrollment. Health education sessions covered hygiene and disease prevention, and officials encouraged inmates to prepare for reentry into society.

During the outreach, over 550 inmates received screenings for hypertension, diabetes, and malaria. About 230 underwent eye exams and received eyeglasses.

The FCTA also plans to strengthen the custodial center’s clinic and ensure a consistent supply of medications. Continued expansion to other facilities in Gwagwalada and Suleja is planned, though long-term sustainability remains to be seen.