The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) has strongly rejected a recent newspaper report that described the nation's prisons as breeding grounds for tuberculosis (TB). The agency labeled the publication as inaccurate and driven by ill intent.
NCoS Counters "Misleading" Media Narrative
In a statement released in Abuja on 4 January 2026, the Service's Public Relations Officer, Jane Osuji, expressed deep concern over the article published on January 3. Osuji stated that the report was not only malicious but also fell short of responsible journalism on critical public health matters.
She criticized the sensational tone of the report, which portrayed custodial centres as unchecked 'hotbeds' for tuberculosis. "This approach is misleading and gives an erroneous impression of systemic neglect where none exists," Osuji emphasized.
Detailed Rebuttal of Health Management Claims
The NCoS revealed that the reporter had previously requested information on TB treatment and control protocols. The Service provided comprehensive and factual responses. However, the published story allegedly ignored this official data.
Osuji outlined the Service's established healthcare framework, which includes:
- Medical screenings for all new inmates upon admission.
- Regular periodic health assessments.
- Strict infection control measures across facilities.
She highlighted the Service's active partnership with the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme (NTBLCP), alongside various health authorities and NGOs. "Inmates diagnosed with tuberculosis are promptly placed on nationally approved treatment regimens at no cost," Osuji affirmed.
Commitment to Health and Ongoing Improvements
Pointing to its successful management of COVID-19 within custodial centres, the NCoS asserted its proven capacity to handle communicable diseases, including TB. While acknowledging challenges like congestion in some urban facilities, the Service reiterated its dedication to decongestion initiatives.
"We are actively engaged in decongestion through jail delivery exercises and expanding non-custodial measures," the spokesperson noted. Furthermore, the NCoS announced plans to recruit more medical professionals to bolster healthcare delivery nationwide.
"We remain committed to safeguarding the health, dignity, and human rights of all persons in custody," the statement concluded. The Service reiterated that while it welcomes constructive feedback, it firmly rejects alarmist and misleading reports that could cause unnecessary public panic.
