The International Federation of Fitness and Body Building (IFBB), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Health, has launched a robust campaign against Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Nigeria.
At a stakeholders’ meeting held yesterday at Nicon Luxury Hotel in Abuja, the Non-communicable Disease Department announced the “Nigeria Fitness Challenge,” which is set to begin on October 1, 2024.
The event will kick off with a workout session promoting freedom, flexibility, and strength.
The meeting aimed to involve stakeholders in raising awareness about combating NCDs and promoting physical education at the grassroots level to reduce the prevalence of these diseases in the country.
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The Federal Government has pledged support, emphasizing the role of bodybuilding in fighting cardiovascular diseases and highlighting the importance of exercise in preventing such conditions.
Dr. Amadi Dorothy, representing the Ministry of Health, emphasized that physical activity, reduced salt intake, and abstaining from alcohol are key strategies in combating NCDs.
Mr. Soye Elekima, President of the IFBB, stressed the necessity of fitness for healthy living, warning that a sedentary lifestyle can be more dangerous than smoking.
“NCD issues are heart-related issues hence the need for physical fitness as it boosts your immune system. We want to get the grassroots involved as well,
“The Nigeria Fitness Challenge (NFC) will be a month-long initiative designed to transform Nigeria into having some of the cities becoming more active in the world. With a calendar of exciting events, NFC is all about motivating and involving the residents of Nigeria to undertake 30 minutes of continuous exercise per day for 30 days,” he said.