Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Tuesday led officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force on a symbolic walkathon from the Force Headquarters to the Unity Fountain, as part of activities commemorating the 2026 National Police Day.
The walkathon, themed “Together We Walk, Together We Secure,” drew participation from police personnel, civil society groups, and members of the public, reflecting a growing commitment to fostering trust, collaboration, and shared responsibility in maintaining peace and security across the country.
Speaking during the event, the IGP emphasized the importance of community engagement in modern policing, noting that sustainable security can only be achieved through active partnership between law enforcement agencies and the citizens they serve. He described the walkathon as a platform to bridge gaps, build mutual confidence, and reinforce the police’s dedication to protecting lives and property.
The exercise also highlighted the need for physical fitness among officers, with the IGP encouraging personnel to maintain healthy lifestyles to enhance operational efficiency and overall service delivery.
Observers noted that the strong turnout of residents alongside police officers symbolized a positive step toward improving police-community relations, particularly in urban centres such as Abuja.
The Nigeria Police Force disclosed that similar walkathons are being held simultaneously across Commands and Formations nationwide as part of a broader lineup of activities marking the 2026 National Police Day. These initiatives are designed not only to promote wellness among officers but also to deepen public trust and cooperation in crime prevention efforts.
The National Police Day celebration continues with a series of community-focused programmes aimed at reinforcing the Force’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, and people-oriented policing.
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