The Federal Government announced on Tuesday plans to supply 50,000 mattresses to correctional centres managed by the Nigeria Correctional Service nationwide.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, explained that the initiative seeks to enhance inmates’ welfare and strengthen rehabilitation efforts within the correctional system. He made the disclosure during the handover of 850 mattresses to the NCS Centre in Olokuta, Akure, Ondo State, represented by his Special Adviser on Correctional Reforms, Babatunde Ogundare.
Tunji-Ojo emphasised, “No inmate should sleep on the bare floor. Every inmate deserves a decent life with dignity. This belief guided my decision to approve the production of these customised mattresses.”
The minister described the new mattresses as waterproof, foldable, and built to international standards for durability and comfort. He noted that previous mattresses wore out quickly, leading to unnecessary expenses, whereas the new fibre mattresses are longer-lasting, support better health, and adhere to global best practices.
He also urged inmates to use the mattresses responsibly, stressing that their welfare remains a priority for the administration. Distribution will be population-based, with each correctional centre receiving mattresses according to its needs, further reinforcing the government’s commitment to dignity, rehabilitation, and humane treatment for all inmates.
