PAAU VC Flags Off Monthly Fitness Exercise, Urges Staff and Students to Embrace Wellness Culture
By Yahaya Idris, Lokoja
The Vice-Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, has officially flagged off the institution’s monthly fitness exercise programme aimed at promoting healthy living and enhancing the physical wellbeing of staff and students.
According to a statement issued by the University’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Uredo Omale, the inaugural exercise was held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the University Stadium and attracted a large turnout of staff, students, and sports enthusiasts who participated in various fitness activities designed to improve physical fitness, agility, and overall wellness.
Represented by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Rufai Sani Abdullahi, the Vice-Chancellor declared every first Saturday of the month as “PAAU Fitness Exercise Day,” stressing the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Professor Abdullahi reaffirmed the popular saying that “Health is Wealth,” noting that regular physical exercise remains a vital component of personal wellbeing and institutional productivity.
He commended the Director of Sports, Mr. Moses Balogun, as well as members of staff and students, for their impressive turnout at the maiden edition of the exercise. He described the participation as a clear demonstration of the University community’s commitment to healthy living and collective wellness.
According to him, consistent engagement in physical fitness activities would not only improve individual health but also enhance productivity, efficiency, and overall performance both in the workplace and at home.
He therefore encouraged members of the University community to embrace the monthly fitness exercise as an integral part of their lifestyle.
Earlier in his remarks, the Director of Sports, Mr. Moses Balogun, explained that the initiative was formally launched by the Vice-Chancellor as part of deliberate efforts by the University Management to foster a culture of healthy living, physical fitness, and personal wellbeing among staff and students.
As part of activities marking the event, a novelty football match was played between Federal University Lokoja and PAAU’s Steeler Football Club.
The match, organised in honour of the Vice-Chancellor as a welcome gesture to the institution, ended in favour of the host team, with Steeler Football Club defeating Federal University Lokoja 2–1 in an entertaining encounter.
The Vice-Chancellor commended both teams for their display of sportsmanship, teamwork, and healthy competition, describing sports as a powerful tool for promoting friendship, discipline, unity, and mutual understanding among institutions.
Professor Usman reiterated the University’s commitment to programmes and initiatives that promote the welfare of staff and students, encourage healthy living, and contribute to the overall growth and development of the University community.
Global Times Nigeria reports that the monthly fitness exercise is expected to become a regular feature on the University’s calendar, further strengthening efforts to build a healthier, more vibrant, and productive academic environment.
