In a significant move aimed at reforming custodial facilities and enhancing the welfare of inmates, the Kano State Government has initiated discussions with the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS). A high-level delegation, led by the Honourable Commissioner for Internal Security, Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim Umaru (Rtd), visited the NCoS headquarters in Abuja to seek strategic collaboration for the completion of the Janguza Ultra-Modern Correctional Centre and the decongestion of the aging Kurmawa facility.
Representing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, AVM Umaru conveyed the state government’s appreciation to the Federal Government for its visionary efforts in prison reform, particularly the ongoing construction of the Janguza centre in Kano. He described the project as a national asset and a critical step in modernizing Nigeria’s correctional system.
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“We have closely monitored the progress at Janguza and commend the Federal Government for this bold initiative,” Umaru said. “It holds immense potential for improving inmate welfare and boosting security in the northern region.”
However, he expressed grave concern over the state of the 115-year-old Kurmawa Correctional Centre, which he said has outlived its usefulness. He described the facility as dilapidated, overcrowded, and unfit for modern correctional practices that emphasize rehabilitation and human dignity.
“The continued use of Kurmawa is no longer sustainable. It poses risks to inmates, correctional officers, and the surrounding community,” the commissioner said. He proposed that the old facility be renovated and converted into a National Skills Acquisition and Vocational Training Centre for inmates and ex-offenders.
The Kano delegation appealed for federal approval to allow the state government to deploy its own resources to expedite the completion and commissioning of the new Janguza facility. The aim, according to Umaru, is to enable the prompt relocation of inmates from the outdated Kurmawa centre to a safer, more humane environment.
“This proposed intervention is not to take over federal responsibility,” he clarified. “Rather, it is a partnership rooted in collaborative federalism, recognising that the welfare and rehabilitation of inmates is a shared national duty.”
He assured the Nigerian Correctional Service of Kano State’s commitment to working under the technical supervision and guidance of the Service. “We will ensure that all interventions align with national standards and protocols,” he added.
In his response, the Comptroller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Haliru Nwakuche, commended the Kano State Government for its proactive stance and support for the welfare of inmates. He noted that Kano has already distinguished itself through consistent support in areas such as education, food provision, and general inmate welfare.
“Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has shown tremendous leadership in supporting correctional services. His efforts have had a direct impact on improving conditions for inmates in Kano,” Nwakuche stated.
The Comptroller General warmly welcomed the proposed collaboration, describing it as a model initiative that aligns with the Service’s broader goals of inmate rehabilitation and infrastructure development. “We are open to working with state governments that are willing to assist in this national responsibility,” he said.
He, however, noted that the proposal would be forwarded to the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for further deliberation and necessary approval. “The Minister’s guidance will shape the implementation framework for this project,” Nwakuche added.
Nwakuche also urged other governors to emulate Kano’s approach. “We encourage other state governments to show similar commitment. The correctional system needs this kind of collaboration to function effectively,” he said.
He assured the delegation that the NCoS was committed to working closely with Kano State once the necessary approvals were secured, adding that the proposal aligns with the Service’s mandate to ensure safe custody and rehabilitation of inmates.
The proposed partnership is expected to not only fast-track the completion of the Janguza facility but also ease the burden on the overstretched Kurmawa Correctional Centre, improving safety and living conditions for both inmates and staff.
If successful, the initiative could serve as a national model for how states and the Federal Government can jointly address pressing challenges in the justice and correctional sectors through mutual cooperation and resource sharing.
Also present in the Kano State delegation were Hon. Nasiru Sule, Commissioner for Special Duties, and the Chairperson of the State Prerogative of Mercy Committee. Their inclusion highlights the state’s comprehensive and reform-minded approach to justice administration and inmate rehabilitation.
