Kano State Proposes Partnership to Replace Century-Old Prison, Hails Federal Support
By Maikudi Muhammad Marafa
Kano State Government has called for a strategic partnership with the Federal Government to address the severe overcrowding and decay at the historic Kurmawa Correctional Centre, proposing a joint intervention to fast-track the completion of a modern facility in Janguza.
During a high-level meeting at the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) Headquarters in Abuja, a state delegation highlighted that the century-old Kurmawa facility is “grossly overstretched” and “no longer suitable for continued use,” posing significant risks.
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Led by the Honourable Commissioner for Internal Security, Air Vice Marshall Ibrahim Umaru (rtd), the delegation presented a collaborative framework to mobilize resources for the speedy completion and commissioning of the modern Janguza Correctional Centre. Concurrently, plans are being explored to repurpose the old Kurmawa site into a skill acquisition centre and museum, preserving its historical value while serving a new, productive role for the community.
“The ultimate goal is the safe and orderly relocation of inmates and staff to a modern, humane facility,” stated AVM Umaru. “This initiative is pursued in the spirit of cooperative federalism, where the security and welfare of all citizens, including those in custody, are a shared responsibility.”
In a statement signed by Musa Tanko Muhammad Press Secretary Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Kano State stressed that, the Commissioner assured the Comptroller General of the NCoS of the state government’s commitment to undertaking this intervention strictly under the Service’s technical guidance and professional jurisdiction, emphasizing that the move is designed to complement federal efforts and strengthen Kano’s overall security architecture.
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The Comptroller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Mr. Sylvester Ndidi N., commended the Kano State Government for its proactive and humane approach. He praised Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s leadership, describing him as a leader held in high esteem by the Service.
“Any move to improve correctional facilities is a welcome development,” stated Mr. Ndidi. He assured the delegation that the proposal would be discussed with the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for further action, and that the Service’s formal position would be communicated in due course.
The delegation also included the Hon. Commissioner for Special Duties, Alhaji Nasiru Sule Garo; Kano State Comptroller of Corrections, Alhaji Ado Inuwa; and the Chairperson of the Kano State Council on Prerogative of Mercy, Hon. Hajiya Azumi Namadi Bebeji.
