The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has announced that a recent cholera outbreak at the Kurmawa Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kano has been successfully contained. According to a statement released by the Public Relations Officer, Jane Osuji, the outbreak was confirmed through laboratory investigation on September 23, 2026. The NCoS medical team at the facility, in collaboration with the Kano State Public Health authorities, played a crucial role in identifying and addressing the outbreak.
The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuchu, directed that all necessary measures be taken to protect the lives, health, and welfare of inmates and personnel. The incident was first detected on September 17, 2026, when an inmate presented with symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea. The inmate was immediately admitted and treated at the Centre's medical facility. The swift response of the medical team helped prevent further spread of the disease.
The outbreak resulted in two fatalities, one at the facility and the other at the Kano State Infectious Diseases Hospital. The Controller-General has extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. Despite the tragic loss of life, the NCoS has expressed relief that no further mortality has been recorded since the diagnosis. The coordinated interventions undertaken by the Service have successfully brought the outbreak under control.
To prevent future occurrences, the NCoS has initiated additional preventive measures in collaboration with the Kano State Government. These efforts aim to enhance healthcare services and disease surveillance across custodial facilities. Qualified medical personnel are available to provide healthcare services, and continuous disease surveillance, early detection, and prompt medical response are being strengthened in collaboration with relevant public health authorities.
The Controller-General has directed a team of senior medical personnel from the Service National Headquarters to proceed to the facility for sustained monitoring of the situation. This move reaffirms the Service's commitment to ensuring that all persons in custody are treated humanely, with their health, dignity, and welfare protected in accordance with the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019, and established correctional standards.
The NCoS has appreciated the concern expressed by members of the public and encouraged reliance on verified information disseminated through official channels. The Service will continue to provide timely updates where necessary. By taking proactive steps to address the outbreak and prevent future incidents, the NCoS has demonstrated its dedication to the well-being of inmates and personnel.
The Nigerian Correctional Service has reassured the public that it will continue to prioritize the health and welfare of all persons in custody. The Service's efforts to strengthen healthcare services and disease surveillance will help prevent similar outbreaks in the future. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and cooperation between correctional facilities and public health authorities.
Key points
- The Nigerian Correctional Service contained a cholera outbreak at the Kurmawa Medium Security Custodial Centre in Kano.
- Two fatalities were recorded as a result of the outbreak.
- The Service has initiated additional preventive measures to prevent future occurrences.
