Over 800 Ondo inmates receive waterproof fibre mattresses as part of federal reforms to improve welfare and living conditions in correctional centres
The federal government has distributed over 800 waterproof fibre mattresses to inmates at the Olokuta Correctional Centre in Akure, Ondo State, as part of nationwide reforms to improve living conditions in correctional centres.
Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, made the announcement on Tuesday while flagging off the rollout.
Represented by his special adviser on correctional reforms, Babatunde Ogundare, he said the mattresses mark the pilot phase of a national programme that will see 50,000 units delivered across Nigeria.
Tunji-Ojo stressed that no inmate should sleep on the bare floor. “All inmates must live a decent life with dignity. That is why we proposed and approved these customised mattresses,” he said, noting that the Ondo State distribution benefits over 700 inmates immediately.
The minister explained that the mattresses are foldable, waterproof, and designed to meet international standards, with a five-year lifespan.
The intervention, he said, is aimed at improving hygiene, reducing overcrowding, and supporting rehabilitation efforts.
“These fibre mattresses are durable and support the health and well-being of adults. They also bridge the gap of expenses previously incurred by the government due to rapid wear and tear of older bedding,” Tunji-Ojo added.
Charles Oyewole, Controller of Corrections for Ondo State Command, praised the federal government’s initiative, lauding Tunji-Ojo for promoting personnel and supporting the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ of President Bola Tinubu within the correctional services.
Oyewole urged inmates to make full use of the mattresses and reiterated that their welfare remains central to the administration’s reforms.
The national mattress programme forms part of broader correctional reforms, including infrastructure upgrades, vocational training, healthcare services, and skills acquisition programmes designed to prepare inmates for reintegration into society.
