Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
In a significant move to preserve historical heritage, the Kano State Government has unveiled plans to convert the iconic Kurmawa Maximum Security Prison, a 115 year old colonial era structure, into a state of the art museum.
The century-old facility, constructed in 1910 by British colonial authorities within the premises of the Kano Emirs Palace, was originally designed to equip 690 inmates and has since stood as a prominent artifact of Nigeria’s colonial and penal history.
Special Adviser on Information, Ibrahim Adam, confirmed the development via his verified Facebook page, stating that the historic Kurmawa Correctional Center will be repurposed into a cultural and educational museum, while inmates will be relocated to the modern Janguza Correctional Facility. The Janguza prison, constructed during the administration of late President Muhammadu Buhari, boasts a 3,000-inmate capacity, providing a more spacious and contemporary alternative.
Adam emphasized that the initiative aligns with Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf’s vision to revamp Kano’s historical landmarks and promote tourism. “The Kurmawa Correctional Center will be transformed into a museum dedicated to preserving artifacts and showcasing Kano’s rich cultural legacy,” he stated.
The repurposed facility is expected to serve as an educational hub and tourist attraction, offering insights into the region’s colonial past, judicial evolution, and traditional heritage.
The project underscores the state government’s commitment to urban renewal and cultural preservation, ensuring that the ancient city’s historical identity remains intact while adapting old structures for modern relevance.
The museum is anticipated to attract researchers, historians, and tourists, further boosting Kano’s reputation as a center of Nigerian history and tradition.