The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has confirmed that a recent outbreak of cholera at the Kurmawa Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kano, has been contained.
The outbreak was confirmed through laboratory investigation on the 23rd of September 2026, by NCoS medical team at the facility and the Kano State Public Health authorities.
The Controller General of Corrections, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, MFR, mni, pcc, who was immediately briefed, directed that every necessary measure be sustained to protect the lives, health and welfare of inmates and personnel.
The Service regrets that the outbreak claimed two lives; one at the facility and the other at the Kano State Infectious Deceases Hospital.
The Controller-General extends heartfelt condolences over the unfortunate loss of lives.
The incident was first detected on 17th September, 2026, when an inmate presented with vomiting and diarrhea and immediately admitted and treated at the Centre’s medical facility.
By the next morning, the medical team immediately activated emergency medical protocols while intensifying medical intervention and monitoring
These coordinated interventions successfully brought the outbreak under control. Importantly, no further mortality has been recorded since the diagnosis.
The Service has initiated additional preventive measures, in collaboration with Kano State Government, as part of broader efforts aimed at preventing future occurrences.
The Nigerian Correctional Service wishes to reassure the public that healthcare services remain available across custodial facilities through qualified medical personnel, while continuous disease surveillance, early detection and prompt medical response are being strengthened in collaboration with relevant public health authorities.
The Controller-General has further directed a team of senior medical personnel from the Service National Headquarters to proceed to the facility for sustained monitoring of the situation and reaffirmed 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 Service appreciates the concern expressed by members of the public and encourages reliance on verified information disseminated through official channels as it continues to provide timely updates where necessary.
E Signed
JN Osuji
Chief Superintendent of Corrections
Service Public Relations Officer.
26th September 2026.