Borno police to enforce monthly sanitation as cholera cases rise

The Borno State Police Command has announced plans to enforce a monthly environmental sanitation exercise across the state on Saturday, as part of measures to contain the spread of cholera following recent outbreaks in Maiduguri and surrounding areas.

The exercise is scheduled to hold from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on June 6, 2026, according to a directive from the state Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid. The command noted that the enforcement would be carried out jointly with the Borno State Environmental Protection Agency (BOSEPA) to promote hygiene and curb the further transmission of the disease.

Police authorities emphasised that maintaining a clean environment remains one of the most effective ways to prevent cholera and other sanitation-related illnesses. Residents are being urged to actively participate by cleaning their homes, business premises, drainage channels, and their immediate surroundings.

To ensure compliance, police personnel and other relevant officials will be deployed to strategic locations across the state during the sanitation period. The command advised the public to restrict unnecessary movement and cooperate fully with enforcement officers.

The Borno Police Command reassured residents of its dedication to protecting public health and maintaining order, while calling on citizens to support government efforts to stop the further spread of cholera.

The enforcement comes amid a significant cholera outbreak that has affected the state since early May. Health authorities reported that at least 39 people have died and about 4,204 cases have been recorded across seven local government areas.

The command also urged residents to report emergencies or security concerns through the nearest police station or designated emergency lines.