In a move aimed at enhancing inmate welfare and advancing correctional reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Federal Government has donated more than 850 customised fibre mattresses to custodial centres across Ondo State.
The Honourable Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, formally launched the distribution at the Medium Security Custodial Centre in Akure, describing the initiative as a demonstration of the government’s commitment to humane custody, inmate dignity, and effective rehabilitation.
An official statement from the Ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mary Ali, noted that Ondo State was selected as the pilot site for this nationwide programme. Represented at the event by Mr Babatunde Ogundare, the Minister said the intervention forms part of broader efforts to reposition the Nigerian Correctional Service in line with global best practices.
“The initiative reflects the Federal Government’s dedication to humane custody, inmate welfare, and the broader goal of rehabilitation and reintegration,” Tunji-Ojo stated, emphasizing that improving living conditions in custodial facilities is a key element of sustainable correctional reforms. He added that providing decent bedding would enhance inmates’ physical well-being while reinforcing the government’s resolve to treat persons in custody with dignity and prepare them for productive reintegration into society.
Charles Oyewole, the Ondo State Controller of Corrections, lauded the Minister for his continued support and interventions in improving conditions in correctional centres. He also highlighted Tunji-Ojo’s recent efforts in facilitating the payment of fines for certain inmates, leading to their release, describing the action as timely and impactful.
Oyewole noted that the donation of mattresses would significantly improve inmate welfare and further bolster reforms aimed at transforming custodial centres into genuine correctional and rehabilitation institutions.