The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has launched a monthly fitness exercise to promote healthy living and enhance productivity among journalists.
The initiative, which kicked off on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the NUJ FCT Secretariat in Abuja, saw journalists from various media organizations participating in aerobic sessions and wellness routines.
Speaking during the maiden edition, the NUJ FCT Chairman, Ms. Grace Ike, emphasized the importance of regular exercise and medical check-ups in combating the effects of sedentary lifestyles common among media professionals.
“Many of us experience joint pains and fatigue because we don’t exercise. We go from one assignment to another and spend long hours sitting or working without physical activity,” she noted. “Even if you can’t join the council’s session, find time within your community for a walk or basic fitness routine.”
Ms. Ike explained that the monthly keep-fit program is the first of its kind in the council’s history and aligns with her administration’s commitment to fostering the well-being of members.
She further disclosed that as part of the upcoming NUJ Press Week, a team of medical professionals from Nizamiye Hospital will conduct free health screenings for journalists.
“As we pursue health insurance for our members, we must also take personal responsibility for our health. This monthly exercise is one way to start,” she added.
Other participants also lauded the initiative. Ms. Nkechi Onyeneke, a member of the NUJ Sports Planning Committee, described exercise as essential to wellness. “If you’re fit, you’re healthy. As journalists in FCT, we should embrace this opportunity,” she said.
Princess Halima Jibrin of the Correspondents’ Chapel described the initiative as a milestone and recommended its adoption by other NUJ state councils across the country.
Joke Adisa of TVC News called on media professionals to prioritize their health, noting that many in the profession suffer from preventable conditions like hypertension and diabetes due to poor self-care.
“This initiative is timely. It reminds us that we must deliberately create time to unwind and take care of our bodies,” Adisa said, urging Nigerians to commit at least 30 minutes daily to physical exercise.
A member of the council, Alpha Jackden, said he felt energized after the session and called for more frequent fitness activities.
“This exercise has revealed the effects of our sedentary lifestyle. We need to do more to improve our overall health,” he said.
The NUJ FCT Council’s monthly fitness program will now hold every last Saturday of the month, providing members with a consistent platform to improve their physical and mental well-being.
