The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) FCT Command, has refuted a recent narrative alleging that female inmates across Nigeria are being “left without menstrual care” citing the Medium Security Custodial Centre Suleja.
While refuting the claim in a statement on Sunday, the Public Relations Officer of the NCoS, FCT Command, DSC Adamu Samson Duza, described the allegation as false, misleading, and does not reflect the reality on the ground.
According to the statement, in line with its mandate and international best practices, NCoS supplies sanitary pads and hygiene kits to all female inmates at no cost, with monthly distribution recorded in inmates' welfare registers.
"Custodial Centres has a designated healthcare unit with qualified nurses and doctors that attend to the medical needs of female inmates, including menstrual-related issues, with free consultations, medications, and referrals to nearby hospitals when required.
"The Service also collaborates with development partners, civil society organizations, and faith-based groups that regularly donate sanitary products and conduct menstrual-hygiene awareness sessions. Recently the service received a donation of sanitary pads from the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) to promote menstrual hygiene, amongst others. This is a testament of the power of collaboration.
"Nigerian Correctional Service, FCT Command remains committed to the dignity and humane treatment of all inmates, in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution, the Nelson Mandela Rules, and the United Nations Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners.
"The Service hereby advise reporters to confirm sources of their information regarding the Nigerian Correctional Service before going to press in order not to mislead the general public."