The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has commended the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents’ Chapel, FCT, for organizing a public health awareness campaign, describing the initiative as timely amid rising health concerns across the country.
Shaibu made the remarks while chairing the 2026 Public Health Awareness and Wellbeing Conference held at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja.
The event was organised by the Correspondents’ Chapel in partnership with Alliance Hospital and Dr. Physiq Global Health and Wellness Centre.
Addressing participants, the NIS boss emphasised the need to prioritise health through regular medical check-ups and mental wellbeing, noting that both are critical to productivity and quality of life.
“Our health is critical in the situation we find ourselves today. It demands consistent attention because mental stability is key to daily living. Whether we accept it or not, health is wealth,” he said.
He called on stakeholders, including professional bodies such as the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), to sustain collaboration and replicate similar initiatives aimed at improving public health outcomes nationwide.
Highlighting ongoing reforms at the institute, Shaibu disclosed that the NIS has institutionalised routine fitness activities, with weekly exercise sessions for staff as part of efforts to promote a healthier workforce.
He also revealed the engagement of a certified medical doctor specialising in marathon events, describing the move as a milestone achieved without waiting for budgetary releases.
“We must move beyond excuses and stop relying solely on government funding before taking necessary action. Leadership requires initiative and innovation,” he added.
Shaibu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future participation in international sporting competitions, attributing progress in the sector to strategic leadership and commitment to service delivery.
He further paid tribute to journalists, describing them as critical to the survival of democracy. Recalling his experience during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, he credited the media with playing a role in securing his freedom.
“If not for the courage of journalists who exposed what was happening at the time, I might not be alive today. That is why I hold the media in high regard,” he said.
The conference featured a keynote address by Dr. Abdulrahaman M. Huzaifa and a guest lecture by Dr. Christopher Otabor. It was hosted by the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Felix Ojo, while the NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, served as Chief Host.
Free medical diagnostic services were provided for participants, reinforcing the programme’s focus on preventive healthcare and public wellbeing.
