By Abra Iruoghene, Ikebudu Cynthia
President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) and wife of the Comptroller General of Customs,Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi,has called for extensive promotion of Mental Health and physical fitness amongst women in Nigeria.Mrs Adeniyi who spearheaded the COWA maiden physical fitness exercise and mental health awareness program organized for COWA members in Abuja, themed ‘Healthy Wife, Wealthy Life.’
The multifaceted event held on December 9, 2023 in Abuja included a road walk, mental health talk, medical checkup, yoga session, and networking opportunities.
Speaking at the groundbreaking initiative,COWA President ,Mrs. Adeniyi emphasized that wealth encompassed more than monetary value, highlighting the importance of physical well-being, family, and professional success.
Addressing COWA members as ‘domestic engineers,’ she urged them to be purposeful, not only in maintaining households but also in managing family, business, and extended family affairs. Mrs.Adeniyi encouraged financial stability among members, assured them of empowerment and self-sufficiency.
While commending the impressive turnout, Mrs.Adeniyi revealed that COWA would organize quarterly medical checkups for blood pressure and sugar tests. She stressed the significance of members’ well-being, recognizing its positive impact on the efficiency of their husbands in combating smuggling.
Dr. SR Garba, Deputy Comptroller of Customs and consultant in charge of medical services, applauded Mrs. Adeniyi for prioritizing the health of officers’ wives. He highlighted the positive influence this initiative could have on officers’ concentration and effectiveness in their roles.
A Guest Speaker,Olayode Abdurasaq Oluwole also known as Philosopher King
delivered a pep talk on mental health, urged COWA members to manage and control their emotions for a higher quality of life. He emphasized the importance of balancing chemicals like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin for stable mental health.
Dr. Mrs. Asma Basira, National Secretary of COWA, underscored the need for women to take their lives seriously in building realistic, accommodating, and joy-filled homes.
The National Provost of COWA, Fatima Mohammed Abdulkarim, expressed joy over the event’s success, encouraging those who missed it to participate in future activities. Mrs. Blessing Akiba highlighted the event as an opportunity for women to mingle and form genuine connections.
Another Speaker,Ajoko Jane from Federal Ministry of Health spoke on mindful eating, advised women to be conscious of their diet’s impact on their health and to abstain from substances that may harm their well-being.
The event’s vibrant atmosphere resonated with Mrs.Adeniyi’s vision of fostering holistic well-being.
As the participants engaged in the invigorating road walk, the streets echoed with laughter and camaraderie. The yoga session provided a serene interlude, emphasizing the harmony between physical and mental health.
Moreover, the networking segment emerged as a catalyst for collaboration among COWA members. Bonds were strengthened as women shared insights on managing diverse responsibilities.
