Harry Archie
The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, has commended the leadership of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT, for organizing a timely public health awareness campaign, describing the initiative as both necessary and impactful.
Shaibu made the remarks while serving as Chairman of the 2026 Public Health Awareness and Wellbeing Conference, held at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja.
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The event was organized by the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel in collaboration with Alliance Hospital and Dr. Physiq Global Health & Wellness Centre.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Products Integrity, Regulatory Compliances, and Safety Standards – tackling critical challenges in product safety, patients trust, and public health protection,” Shaibu emphasized the urgency of prioritizing health in everyday life.
“Our health is critical, owing to the situation we find ourselves in today. It demands regular medical check-ups because our mental health and stability are essential to our daily living,” he said.
“Whether you like it or not, health is wealth.”
He called on all partners involved in the initiative to sustain their collaboration and urged professional bodies such as the Nigerian Medical Association to emulate the Correspondents’ Chapel.
Reforms at NIS
The former Edo State deputy governor also disclosed significant reforms at the National Institute for Sports, including a new culture of daily fitness. He revealed that the institute now has a trained and certified medical doctor specializing in marathon races.
“It took me seven months to ensure we secured a trained medical doctor for marathon events. He returned to the country just yesterday to resume duties with NIS,” Shaibu disclosed.
He noted that these reforms have been implemented without waiting for budgetary releases, adding, “Yes, the NIS budget has been passed, but we don’t have to wait for its release before carrying out meaningful reforms.
”Shaibu attributed his appointment to the foresight of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future participation in international competitions, including future World Cups.
Tribute to Journalists
In a passionate tribute, Shaibu described journalists as the backbone of democracy, recounting a personal experience during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle when a journalist’s report saved his life.
“I may have died and been remembered as a fallen hero, but that story saved my life. That is why I am proud to associate with journalists,” he said.
The conference featured a keynote address by Dr. Abdulrahaman M. Huzaifa, while Dr. Christopher Otabor served as Guest Speaker.
The event was hosted by Comrade Felix Ojo, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Correspondents’ Chapel, with Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of NUJ FCT Council, as Chief Host.
The programme also included free medical diagnostic services for participants, reinforcing its commitment to promoting preventive healthcare and public wellbeing.
