Nigerians urged to walk more for mental and physical fitness

The Federal Ministry of Sports has charged Nigerians to practise walking often as a form of exercise for mental and physical fitness.

Speaking during the flag-off of the World Walking Day organized by The Association for International Sport for All (TAFISA) in Abuja, the sports minister, Sunday Dare who was represented by a Deputy Director in the ministry Segun Akinlotun said walking for one hour daily is critical in preventing some diseases.

“The ministry encourages citizens to constantly develop the habit of living an active lifestyle through participation in sports.

“As we take part in the World Walking Day, let it serve as a springboard to inculcate the habit of being physically active through regular walking and engaging in any sports or physical activity of our choice.

“The benefits of walking cannot be overemphasized. Constant practise of this form of exercise is critical in maintaining the right weight.

“An hour of walking a day will surely help you manage numerous conditions which include type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.

“When you are stressed out or sad, a short walk can help you a lot in improving your mood. An easy-to-do exercise, but can essentially strengthen the muscles and bones,” he said.

In his goodwill message, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) President, Habu Gumel congratulated TAFISA, the African Union and the General Manager of African Union Sport Council (AUSC), Region 2, Caleb Gidado for organising the year 2020 edition of the event.

Gidado in his welcome address insisted that “everybody is a winner. There is no medal to be given to anybody but during the passing of the baton we expected participants to say certain words against COVID-19.”