The Nigerian public has been advised to take their health more seriously by embracing regular exercise and routine medical check-ups as essential steps toward living healthy and fulfilling lives.
This call was made by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Information Chapel, during a health walk tagged “Walk Your Way to Wellness”, which flagged off activities for its 2025 Press Week.
Speaking to journalists, the Chapel Chairman, Kemi Shitta-Bey, emphasized the importance of fitness and preventive healthcare, urging Nigerians to make personal well-being a top priority.
She also called for public support for the federal government, noting that it is still early in the administration’s tenure to be weighed down by criticisms.
The health walk, which began at the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation on Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, witnessed participants clad in vibrant Ankara attire, drawing attention from passersby, shop owners, and motorists.
Officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) were on hand to ensure smooth traffic flow throughout the exercise.
Shitta-Bey remarked that many Nigerians neglect their health due to busy schedules, a mindset the walk aims to change. “People don’t make time to check their health. That’s why we’ve incorporated health and wellness into our 2025 Press Week,” she explained. “Fitness is important. When you’re fit, you’re healthy inside and out.”
She added that the health walk also served to raise awareness of the Press Week’s theme: “Holding Power to Account: Journalism as a Pillar of Democracy.”
Highlighting other activities lined up for the week, Shitta-Bey said the Chapel would pay a courtesy visit to Massey Children’s Hospital on Wednesday to donate items, while Thursday would feature a public lecture preceded by a free health outreach.
“Participants attending the lecture will have the opportunity to check their health status—because being healthy is critical,” she said.
The NUJ Chairperson appealed to Nigerians to exercise patience and support for the federal government.
“We urge citizens to give the government time to deliver on its promises so we can all benefit from their plans,” she stated.
The health walk concluded peacefully, leaving a positive impression on the community and reinforcing the importance of staying fit and informed.
Reporting by Innocent Onoh