The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, recently urged public workers to adopt regular exercise as a vital part of their lives. She believes that staying fit not only improves health but also boosts productivity in the public sector.
Walson-Jack was the Chief Guest Jogger at a lively aerobic event held at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja. This event, organized by the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA) in collaboration with her office, brought together enthusiastic workers from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). The atmosphere was electric, with many participants dancing to upbeat music.
In her speech, Walson-Jack highlighted that regular exercise isn’t just for personal health—it’s essential for a thriving public service. A healthy employee is a more effective employee, she said. “Today’s turnout showcases our shared commitment to fitness and teamwork,” she remarked.
She reflected on her journey with the monthly exercise initiative, noting its importance throughout her career, from her early days as a Director to her current role. “Physical wellness should be our collective responsibility. We need to lead by example,” she added. She encouraged everyone to view exercise as a key part of their duties, stressing the unifying power of physical activity.
The event also served as a reminder of last year’s Annual Public Service Games, which showcased talent and teamwork. Walson-Jack praised the National President of FEPSGA, Comrade Amaebi Aloku, for his commitment to promoting fitness in the service. She extended her gratitude to the Governor of Rivers State for their generous support during past events, which significantly contributed to their success.
Looking ahead, Walson-Jack announced that the Civil Service Week in June 2025 will introduce an International Civil Service Conference. This will include a special Keep-Fit Exercise event and an Awards Night to celebrate outstanding contributions. She encouraged everyone to participate actively and make health a priority.
Patience Oyekunle, Permanent Secretary of the Service Welfare Office, reinforced the message by saying that this initiative is more than just exercise; it’s about fostering camaraderie and enhancing overall service excellence. “A healthy body fosters a healthy mind,” she noted, pointing out that regular activity can lead to higher productivity and better service delivery.
In recent studies, physical fitness has been linked to reductions in workplace stress and sick days. According to a survey by the World Health Organization, regular physical activity can decrease anxiety and improve mental health, which aligns with the goals of the initiative. Walson-Jack’s emphasis on exercise as a lifestyle reflects a growing trend in workplaces globally to focus on wellness as a key component of productivity.
Overall, the event underscored a significant shift towards prioritizing fitness within the public sector, aiming to create a healthier, more productive workforce for the future.