BY EMMANUELLA OGHENETEGA
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 at the weekend inside 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, 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, 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.
