The Abia State Command of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has conducted a sanitation exercise at the Orie Ugba and Cemetery Markets in Umuahia, the state capital, and the business hub, respectively.

The exercise marked the kick-off of the commemoration of the 2026 National Police Day, which will feature a week-long series of activities, according to the command.

Part of the kick-off activities included physical fitness activities and free medical outreach, which were later extended to the School for the Blind, Afara, and the Motherless Babies Home along Ngwa Road, Aba.

At the event, the Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, invited members of the public to the activities, including a walkathon scheduled for Wednesday in both cities at designated venues at 8 am

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He said the programme was in line with the vision of the inspector-general of police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, on proactive policing and strengthening partnership with members of the public.

Contributing, the officer in charge of Medical, ACP Emelike Chinenye, stressed the importance of sanitation, essential health tips, regular medical checkup and the dangers of self-medication.

The state commissioner for Environment Asonye Ogbonna, lauded the command for the exercise, saying such initiatives contribute significantly to promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.

He said strengthening collaboration between the government and the public in maintaining a clean environment was a collective duty that required the active participation of all stakeholders.

"The ministry is committed to supporting initiatives that promote environmental sustainability and encourages continued partnerships aimed at keeping communities clean and safe", he added.