FG pledges support for inmates’ welfare, plans distribution of 50,000 mattresses to correctional centres nationwide
…over 800 waterproof fibre mattresses distributed to Ondo command ….our inmates will no longer sleep on the bare floor – Says Tunji-Ojo The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to
...over 800 waterproof fibre mattresses distributed to Ondo command
....our inmates will no longer sleep on the bare floor - Says Tunji-Ojo
The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to improving the welfare and living conditions of inmates across the custodial facilities, announcing plans to distribute 50,000 water-proof fibre mattresses to correctional centres nationwide.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, made the pledge on Tuesday at the presentation of the mattresses to the Olokuta Correctional Centre in Akure, the state capital.
Tunji-Ojo, who was represented by his special adviser on correctional reforms, Babatunde Ogundare, said that Ondo state, with over 700 inmates, would receive the first batch of over 850 water-proof fibre mattresses as a pilot phase for the national rollout.
He said the government intervention is part of the ongoing reforms aimed at promoting humane treatment of the inmates and aligning correctional services with global best practices.
The minister also explained that the mattresses would be delivered to centres under the Nigerian Correctional Service in phases to address the acute shortage of basic bedding materials in many facilities.
"The Honourable Minister of Interior has, since assuming office, maintained that none of our custodial centres should be condemnation centres. Rather, they should be places where lives are reformed and transformed into better citizenship. Inmates are part of society, and we must see them as part of us.
"He has decided that none of our inmates should sleep on the bare floor. All inmates must live a decent life with dignity. That is why he proposed and approved the production of these customised mattresses for inmates.
"Nationwide, we will require about 50,000 mattresses to cater for all inmates, but it is also based on the needs of each centre. In Ondo state, well over 700 inmates will benefit immediately. The Honourable Minister has donated over 850 mattresses, which provides additional stock. This initiative will not be limited to Ondo State; we are only flagging it off here. It will be replicated across all 256 custodial centres in Nigeria," Tunji-Ojo said.
He revealed that the mattresses are durable with a five-year lifespan, noting that they are waterproof, foldable, and customised to meet international standards, providing durability and comfort.
The minister reiterated that the inmates' welfare in the country remains a priority, stressing that providing decent accommodation and improved health conditions is critical to rehabilitation and reintegration.
According to Tunji-Ojo, the intervention will help reduce overcrowding challenges and improve sanitation and hygiene within custodial centres, thereby safeguarding the dignity of inmates.
He added that the move forms part of broader correctional reforms, which include infrastructure upgrades, vocational training, healthcare services, and skills acquisition programmes designed to prepare inmates for life after incarceration.
"If you look at the mattress, you will notice the texture and understand that it is waterproof. It is designed to bridge the gap of unnecessary expenses previously incurred by the government, as older mattresses would wear out within a few months due to constant use.
"This fibre mattress aligns with international best practices. Considering overall health and well-being, fibre mattresses are also recommended for adults. This will support their body system, help their backs, and contribute positively to the reformation process within the Service," he added.
Remarking, the Controller of Corrections, Ondo State Command, Charles Oyewole, lauded the federal government through the Ministry of Interior for his transformative leadership, reforms, and support for personnel within the Ministry of Interior.
Oyewole specifically commended Tunji-Ojo for his role in promoting personnel who had been stagnant for years, noting that this boosted the 'Renewed Hope Agenda' of President Bola Tinubu within the correctional services.
He, however, encouraged the inmates to make use of the waterproof mattresses, adding that their welfare remains a priority to the heart of the current administration.
