As part of ongoing efforts to promote the health and well-being of public servants, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) has reaffirmed its commitment to institutionalising wellness initiatives that support a more resilient and productive Civil Service.
This declaration was made during the July 2025 edition of the Monthly Walking/Jogging Aerobic Exercise, held on Saturday, 26th July 2025, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Speaking at the event, jointly organised by FEPSGA, the OHCSF Wellness Centre, and the Events Coordination Team, the Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office, OHCSF and Guest Jogger, Mrs. Patience Oyekunle, underscored the importance of staff well-being to effective service delivery, stating: “Health is wealth, and a fit, resilient workforce is the backbone of a high-performing and people-centred Civil Service.”
She commended the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, mni, for her exemplary leadership in championing reforms that harmonise productivity with staff welfare. Mrs. Oyekunle urged Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to continue supporting the initiative and ensure active participation, emphasizing that regular physical activity boosts mental alertness, reduces stress, and fosters a healthier work culture.
Highlighting available support facilities, she encouraged staff to take advantage of the OHCSF Gymnasium, now equipped with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, and the OHCSF Wellness Centre, which offers free medical check-ups and consultations. These services form part of the broader OHCSF Wellness Programme, which also includes preventive healthcare services, stress management initiatives, and nutrition awareness campaigns—all designed to promote holistic well-being.
She further lauded the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA) and the Events Coordination Team for their dedication to promoting staff health and encouraged public servants to adopt fitness as a lifestyle beyond the monthly exercise.
In his remarks, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, applauded the commitment of FEPSGA, describing it as the largest gathering of public servants and praising the participants for their unwavering service to the nation.
Also in his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Mr. Emeka Vitalis, mni, noted that the impressive turnout reinforced the vital role of sports in maintaining good health and overall well-being.
Earlier in his welcome address, the President of FEPSGA, Mr. Aloku Amaebi, stated that the exercise goes beyond mere physical activity. According to him, “Regular fitness activities like today’s jogging strengthen the heart, boost stamina, enhance mental clarity, and build resilience against stress.” He expressed gratitude to the OHCSF for prioritising the health and wellness of public servants.
The event witnessed the presentation of awards to MDAs including; Highest Attendance, Best Kitted, Best Behaved and Punctuality categories.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth Development, Mr. Olubunmi Olusanya, the Executive Vice-Chairman of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, and representatives from the Federal Character Commission, Nigeria Technical Aid Corps, as well as Directors and senior officials from various MDAs were part of participants at the July Edition of the monthly jogging exercise.
The monthly jogging exercise underscores government’s unwavering commitment to fostering a. proactive approach to health by encouraging regular physical activity, early medical checks, and lifestyle changes that reduce health risks and enhance long-term productivity in the workplace place.
Signed
Mrs. Eno Olotu, mnipr
Director, Information and Public Relations
email: Eno.olotu@ohcsf.gov.ng
July 26, 2025
