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ABUJA.Nigeria - President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, through the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has direct the recruitment of 50 doctors and 100 nurses to meet the healthcare needs of inmates in correctional facilities nationwide. Additionally, he has announced the presidential endorsement for the creation of a National Paramilitary Academy.
The minister has also received presidential approval for the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to assign medical doctors to correctional facilities during their service year, acknowledging the importance of protecting the rights of the most vulnerable in society.
A statement released by the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister on Thursday revealed that Tunji-Ojo also announced the extension of service beyond retirement age for current medical staff under the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) to address short-term staffing shortages.
Prior to his tenure as minister, states such as Rivers State faced a deficit in medical personnel available for inmate care, highlighting the necessity for this employment initiative.
The minister indicated that the recruitment process would help reduce unemployment and stressed that it would be an ongoing effort.
Furthermore, the minister confirmed the completion of renovations at the Kuje Correctional Centre, stating that the facility has undergone significant improvements, transforming it into a commendable establishment.
“It is completely renewed; from the cells to the water supply, to the hospital, among other areas, as we ensure that Mr. President’s generosity is experienced in all facets. For the president, the aim is to build a system that endures, focusing on providing immediate solutions to short-term issues while offering lasting resolutions for long-term challenges, which is encouraging,” he said.
The minister noted that the establishment of a National Paramilitary Academy will fulfill the need for a degree-awarding institution dedicated to training young citizens in paramilitary disciplines.
“We require a degree-awarding institution similar to the Nigerian Defence Academy, where young individuals can be trained after gaining admission through the University Tertiary Matriculation Examination. Upon completion, they will graduate as officers, adequately prepared to contribute to national security,” he elaborated.
Regarding visa applications, the minister stated that the process is evolving, with all Nigerian visas now to be applied for online and processed (either approved or rejected) within 48 to 72 hours.
In terms of safety and security, the minister reiterated government initiatives aimed at improving the Private Guard sector. “We are working towards structurally enhancing the sector so that it can effectively contribute to the country’s security framework. We are in the process of implementing what we refer to as the Guard Management System to automate processes in that regard,” he concluded.
