The Osun State Government has begun enrolling approximately 1,100 inmates from the Ilesa and Ile-Ife Correctional Centres into its free health insurance program, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
Dr. Razaq Akindele, Executive Secretary of the Osun State Health Insurance Agency (OSHI), said the initiative followed a request from Rotimi Olalekan, the State Controller of Corrections, who appealed for support in addressing the health needs of inmates.
“Governor Ademola Adeleke approved their inclusion because these inmates are residents of Osun and will eventually be reintegrated into society,” Akindele explained. He highlighted that similar initiatives have previously benefited over 26,000 pensioners, people with disabilities, and students in public schools.
The program is part of a broader state effort to improve healthcare access. For instance, 450,000 pupils and students in public schools have been screened for visual impairments, with 43,000 receiving free corrective glasses.
Olalekan confirmed that the enrollment initially targeted 1,200 inmates, but the current number stands at 1,100 due to routine admissions and discharges. He noted that until now, the Federal Government had been solely responsible for inmate healthcare, and the state’s intervention will significantly ease the burden on correctional facilities.
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