Abuja: The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has announced plans to commence monthly psychiatric evaluations for all prison inmates nationwide starting November 2025. The Vice President I of the association, Dr. Benjamin Olowojebutu, made this revelation during a visit to the Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS).

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the initiative aims to provide inmates with essential mental health tools while also promoting the dignity and wellbeing of female inmates through the donation of re-usable sanitary pads. This donation is supported by Diatom Impact/Platform Capital, a Nigerian company specializing in sanitary products. Dr. Olowojebutu emphasized that the evaluations and donations are part of a broader effort to support inmate rehabilitation through consistent psychological support.

The NMA’s collaboration with the NCoS and Diatom Impact/Platform Capital highlights a commitment to improving inmate welfare. In response to the initiative, Mr. Sylvester Nwakuche, the Controller-General of the NCoS, praised the NMA’s dedication to inmate welfare and its ongoing partnership with the service. Nwakuche also acknowledged the contributions of Diatom Impact/Platform Capital, which has established an incubation center at the Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja, providing inmates with training and certification in digital skills.

Dr. Akintoye Akindele, Chairman of Diatom Impact/Platform Capital, expressed that supporting inmates is a moral obligation, emphasizing the importance of treating inmates with dignity and respect. He highlighted the need for positive initiatives that focus on rehabilitation and nation-building, ensuring that inmates are viewed as citizens deserving of opportunities for a better life.