The Anambra State Government joined the global celebration of the 2026 Olympic Day with a commemorative fitness walk aimed at promoting healthy living, grassroots sports development, and the values of the Olympic Movement.
The walk, organised by the Anambra State Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, commenced at the Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Corporate Headquarters, Aroma, Awka, passed through UNIZIK Junction and the Kwata Flyover, and ended at the Awka City Stadium. It attracted sports stakeholders, football club owners, youth organisations, and fitness enthusiasts from across the state.
Speaking at the end of the exercise, the Commissioner for Youth Development and Sports, Hon. Patrick Agha Mba, said Olympic Day is celebrated worldwide to encourage physical activity and healthy lifestyles. He commended the Anambra State Government for its commitment to grassroots sports development through investments in sports infrastructure, including the completion of the Ekwulobia Township Stadium and Sports Club, while expressing optimism that more projects would follow.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to promoting the ideals of the Olympic Movement, stressing that physical fitness should become a daily lifestyle rather than a one-day event.
“Today, Anambra joins millions across the world to celebrate this year’s Olympic Day and restate our commitment to the Olympic spirit. For us, it is not just today; it is about creating awareness for grassroots sports development and physical fitness. We will continue with these activities beyond today and make them a lifestyle,” Mba said.
Representing the Chairman of Awka North Local Government Area, Hon. ThankGod Anagor, Mr. Augustine Onukwube described the event as a celebration of fitness, friendship, and healthy living. He also commended the wife of the Anambra State Governor, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, and her NGO for championing healthy living initiatives across the state, noting that Awka North is equally promoting grassroots sports within the council area.
The owner of Alleluia Football Club, Mr. Elochukwu Nwosu, said the event provided young footballers with an exciting opportunity to participate in a meaningful sporting activity while enabling stakeholders to interact and build stronger networks.
Similarly, the proprietor of Game Changer Football Club, Mr. Chukwudi Obiemeka, praised the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports and Mrs. Soludo for their sustained efforts to promote healthy lifestyles among residents.
Also speaking, Mr. Kingsley Egwuchimobi of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Anambra State Chapter, applauded the state government’s commitment to youth development and healthy living, noting that sports help young people channel their energy into productive activities.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that the event concluded with aerobic exercise sessions, a healthy fruit breakfast, and an entertaining taekwondo demonstration.
