Adeleke Flags Off Free Health Insurance for Inmates in Osun

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, has launched the free enrolment of inmates in correctional centres across the state into the Osun Health Insurance Scheme (OHIS).

Speaking at the official flag-off ceremony held at the Ilesa Correctional Centre, Adeleke said the initiative was part of his administration’s commitment to making healthcare accessible to all residents without discrimination.

He stressed that inmates remain citizens who deserve quality healthcare and welfare support regardless of their status, religion, or political affiliation.

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The Governor explained that the gesture was in response to an appeal made by the State Controller of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Mr. Olalekan Oluwadele, during a recent visit to the Government House.

In his remarks, Oluwadele praised Adeleke for his consistent support to the service, noting that the enrolment of 1,200 inmates into OHIS was a significant step towards inclusive healthcare. He also highlighted previous interventions by the state government, including the release of 53 inmates through amnesty, the renovation of operational vehicles, and solidarity visits following the escape of seven inmates in May 2025.

The Controller further acknowledged reforms introduced by the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, particularly the upward review of the daily feeding allowance for inmates to N1,125.

He, however, appealed for additional state support in areas such as improved security infrastructure, provision of solar power, festive food supplies, skill acquisition tools, and the continuation of periodic amnesty exercises.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Osun Health Insurance Agency, Dr. Muyiwa Oladimeji, and the Executive Secretary, Dr. Rasak Akindele, commended the Governor for prioritising vulnerable groups in healthcare delivery. They described the enrolment of inmates into OHIS as a landmark policy that aligns with the state government’s drive for inclusivity.