The February 2026 monthly environmental sanitation exercise was conducted today across Kwara State, with government officials expressing satisfaction over the general level of compliance recorded at the end of the exercise.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Dr. Abubakar Ayinla, described the exercise as largely successful, noting that residents in many parts of the state came out to clean their surroundings.

He, however, expressed concern over persistent violations in some areas, particularly at Ipata Market, where some traders were seen carrying out their normal business activities during the sanitation hours. He warned that such actions would not be tolerated.

Emirate Radio Staff Reporter, Maryam Haruna Muhammad reports that enforcement teams were active across the state, leading to the arrest and prosecution of over 400 violators. The offenders were tried in 17 mobile courts located across the state, with penalties ranging from fines and community service to custodial sentences. Two persons were remanded in a correctional facility.

Speaking further, the General Manager of the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency, Honorable Jide Aina, said enforcement remains necessary to maintain order. According to him, wherever there is law, there will be violators, and that is why enforcement officers are out to ensure compliance with the law.

Also speaking, the Head of Climate Change and Environmental Assessment Directorate of the Ministry of Environment, Iliyasu Abdulgani, urged residents of Kwara State to always comply with environmental regulations. He stressed that the sanitation exercise is for the good of their health and the overall wellbeing of the people.

The monthly sanitation exercise is held every last Saturday of the month across Kwara State as part of government efforts to maintain a clean and healthy environment.