By Peter Okolie
The Police Command on Imo Wednesday received a consignment of drugs worth millions of Naira to address growing health concerns, specifically hypertension and occupational stress, among its personnel.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the drugs were donated by Chief Executive Officer of Patricklingo Pharmaceuticals Ltd., Mr Patrick Onwuelingo.
In a speech while handing over the items to the command, Onwuelingo said that the gesture was a response to reports of deteriorating health conditions within the force.
He cited a 2025 study from the Nigerian Health Journal indicating that nearly 50 per cent of Nigerian police personnel were hypertensive.
He said: “The journal linked this with the current wave of insecurity plaguing the country, which exposes them as first responders to diverse occupational health stressors.
“The survey further exposed them to the risk of developing physical ill health and psychosocial health challenges.
“Officers face physical and mental demands that require consistent medical attention.”
Onwuelingo said that the donation was meant to provide immediate support for personnel, whose duties often does not allow them go for regular health check-ups.
“Healthcare should not be a luxury, especially for those who dedicate their lives to public safety.
“This outreach is our way of showing appreciation and ensuring that those who protect us also receive the care they deserve,” he said.
In his response, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Audu Bosso, representing the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Disu, admitted the toll that “24/7” duty cycles take on the police personnel.
Bosso, who lauded the firm for its kind gesture, said that malaria and other stress-induced ailments are common among officers.
He promised that the drugs would be distributed through police hospitals, “where they will be administered to personnel free of charge”.
According to him, the “health of officers is critical to maintaining an effective police force.
“With these drugs in our hospitals, it will help us treat some of our peculiar illnesses,” he said.
NAN also reports that the drugs included analgesics, anti-inflammatories, and anti-malarials, such as Artemether/Lumefantrine, Diclofenac Sodium, and Ketoconazole, among others.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Sam Oditah
