The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Philip Shaibu, has commended the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, for championing a timely public health awareness initiative, describing it as impactful and necessary in the current national climate.
Shaibu gave the commendation while chairing the 2026 Public Health Awareness and Wellbeing Conference held at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja. The event was organized by the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel in collaboration with Alliance Hospital and Dr. Physiq Global Health & Wellness Centre.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Product Integrity, Regulatory Compliance, and Safety Standards – Tackling Critical Challenges in Product Safety, Patient Trust, and Public Health Protection,” Shaibu stressed the urgency of prioritizing health in daily living.
“Our health is critical, owing to the situation we find ourselves in today. It demands regular medical check-ups because our mental health and stability are essential to our daily living. Whether you like it or not, health is wealth,” he said.
He urged stakeholders to sustain collaboration beyond the conference, calling on professional bodies, including the Nigerian Medical Association, to emulate the initiative by the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel.
Highlighting reforms at NIS, Shaibu revealed that the institute has institutionalized routine fitness activities for staff, dedicating one hour every Tuesday and Thursday to exercise. He attributed his appointment to the foresight of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and expressed appreciation for the administration’s leadership direction.
The former Edo State Deputy Governor also called on public office holders to adopt innovative approaches rather than relying solely on government funding. “Leaders must stop making excuses and begin to think outside the box. We cannot always wait for government funding before doing what is necessary,” he said.
Shaibu further disclosed that the institute has successfully secured a trained and certified medical doctor specializing in marathon events, describing it as a major milestone achieved without waiting for budgetary releases.
Looking ahead, he expressed optimism about Nigeria’s participation in global sporting competitions, assured that the country would be better positioned in future international events, including the World Cup.
Paying tribute to journalists, Shaibu described them as the backbone of democracy, recounting how media intervention during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle contributed to his survival.
“You, as journalists, are the heart of our democracy. If you had not done what was necessary, I might not be here today sharing this testimony,” he said.
The conference featured a keynote address by Abdulrahaman M. Huzaifa, while Christopher Otabor served as Guest Speaker. It was hosted by Comrade Felix Ojo, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Correspondents’ Chapel, with Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of NUJ FCT Council, as Chief Host.
Participants also benefited from free medical diagnostic services, underscoring the programme’s commitment to preventive healthcare and improved public wellbeing.
