From TCNEWS

The Abia State Government has announced that its monthly environmental sanitation exercise will take place on Saturday, July 26, 2025, from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., across all 17 local government areas of the state.

In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer, Obioma Chidinma Success, on behalf of the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, residents have been urged to actively participate in the sanitation exercise aimed at improving public health and maintaining environmental cleanliness.

According to the release, all movement of persons and vehicles will be restricted during the three-hour period, except for those on essential duties who must carry valid identification or proof of exemption. The statement also emphasized that traditional rulers, local government chairmen (mayors), town union executives, religious leaders, and youth and women organizations are expected to mobilize and sensitize their communities to ensure compliance and participation.

To complement Saturday’s exercise, markets, motor parks, public and private transport services, and business premises are instructed to conduct their own clean-up on Friday, July 25, from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., ahead of the main event.

This initiative underscores Abia State’s commitment to public health, environmental protection, and community responsibility. The state’s proactive engagement with traditional institutions and grassroots organizations illustrates a collaborative approach to sustainable sanitation. Ensuring compliance through both public awareness and law enforcement reflects the government’s determination to foster a cleaner, healthier environment for all residents.

Also, as part of operational support, the government has arranged for refuse collection vehicles (tippers) to be on ground to evacuate waste during Saturday’s activity. In addition, security and enforcement agencies, including the Nigeria Police, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have been directed to mobilize for monitoring and enforcement duties.

All participants are expected to wear face masks and comply with hygiene guidelines. The Commissioner also warned that violators will be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the Abia State Basic Environmental Law.