The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has called on its members to engage in regular physical exercise to maintain fitness and enhance productivity.
The Chairperson, Ms Grace Ike, made the appeal during the council’s inaugural Keep-Fit monthly exercise held at the council’s secretariat on Saturday in Abuja.
She also encouraged journalists to undergo regular health check-ups to remain physically and mentally alert, thereby improving their service to society.
“Many of us experience joint pains due to insufficient exercise; our work involves prolonged periods of sitting, whether in the field, writing, or other activities.
“Make time for fitness, even if you cannot attend the council sessions; establish a routine exercise regime at home.
“Wherever you are, aim to exercise daily. Take health walks, monitor your blood pressure, and keep track of your health.
“Not everyone is strong or fit, and this exercise will help identify those with health concerns.
“I am pleased that the forthcoming Press Week will feature medical professionals from Nizamiye Hospital to conduct health checks for our members,” she stated.
Ike described the monthly exercise initiative as a first for the council and part of new measures her administration has pledged to implement.
She urged members to participate every last Saturday of the month as a means of improving their health.
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While the union pursues health insurance for its members, Ike emphasised that regular exercise remains crucial.
“NUJ FCT is leading the way for journalists to stay fit so we can continue pursuing news actively and maintain good health.
“I understand that many found the exercises challenging due to a period of inactivity. It is time to restore our energy.
“We want to be fit to chase stories, visit the field, and keep our nose to the grindstone,” Ike added.
Nkechi Onyeneke of the NUJ Sport Planning Committee stressed that exercise is essential to healthy living, saying, “If you are fit, you are healthy.”
She encouraged journalists in the FCT to embrace and sustain the initiative.
“As a journalist in the FCT, missing this means missing out. Make an effort to attend next time as we strive to stay fit,” she said.
Halima Jibrin from the Correspondent Chapter hailed the initiative as a landmark achievement by the NUJ FCT leadership, urging that it be sustained and proposed to other councils.
“I believe Grace Ike should present this to the NEC for adoption by every NUJ chapter nationwide to promote fitness.
“It is not enough to remain behind the camera or screen without realising that health is wealth. Let us stay fit and healthy.
“No matter who you are, without fitness, you cannot fully enjoy your achievements,” Jibrin added.
Ajoke Adisa of TVC News urged journalists to prioritise their health, highlighting the sedentary nature of their work.
She commended the union’s initiative and said that sustained practice of the habit would yield significant benefits.
“Over the years, ailments such as diabetes and hypertension have been major killers, especially among journalists who neglect relaxation.
“This initiative will help revive health consciousness,” she noted.
Adisa appealed to all Nigerians to dedicate 20 to 30 minutes daily for exercise.
Alpha Jackden, a council member, expressed enthusiasm about participating in the exercise and encouraged members to exercise regularly beyond the monthly sessions.
“From today’s experience, many of us are unfit, so regular exercise, not just once a month, is vital,” Jackden said.
