The Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 2 HQ, Onikan, Lagos, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, has reiterated the importance of physical fitness for police personnel as the Zone concluded its November fitness walk during which they covered 12.2 kilometres.
The exercise, which lasted about two hours and 12 minutes, saw officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force trek from Onikan through designated routes in Lagos as part of ongoing efforts to enhance their health, alertness, and operational readiness.
Speaking after the walk, AIG Fayoade underscored the critical link between physical well-being and effective policing. “The importance of this fitness walk is to keep our officers and men fit and healthy so that they will be alive to their responsibility. You know that a sound mind in a sound body is how you are able to carry out your duties so we deem it fit to be doing this at least once in a month.”
He noted the improvement in performance compared to previous editions. “The last time we made 10.1km but this time around, we made 12.2km in about 2 hours 12 minutes,” he said, describing the progress as encouraging.
The AIG gave special commendation to the female officers who participated actively in the exercise. “I particularly appreciate the females, they were gallant and active throughout the walk. I say kudos to them and encourage others who are not here to take advantage of this as it is very good and helpful to all of us.”
Fayoade emphasized that policing is a demanding profession that requires personnel to maintain peak physical condition. He urged officers to adopt healthier lifestyles, saying: “The Police job is a very demanding job so we have to keep ourselves fit and healthy. My advice is that we should take a balanced diet which includes fruits, little carbs, more protein, and plenty of water, and stay away from alcohol or at least not one that will get you drunk. We must check our body regularly, blood pressure, blood sugar, and get to the doctor at least once in six months to do other physical checks.”
As the festive season approaches, the AIG reassured residents of Lagos and Ogun States of adequate security arrangements. “My message to the people of Lagos and Ogun States as we enter the Yuletide is to assure them that we have mapped out security coverage on the roads they should entertain no fear. We are doing it with other security agencies like FRSC, NSCDC, among others,” he stated.
With the expanded security collaboration and improved officer readiness, AIG Fayoade affirmed that the Zone is prepared to ensure a safe and peaceful holiday period for all residents.