DG Shaibu Hails NUJ Chapel’s Health Campaign, Tasks Leaders On Wellness Commitment

The Director General of the National Institute for Sports, Comrade Philip Shaibu, has praised the FCT Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists for organizing a public health awareness conference, calling the move timely and commendable amid rising health concerns nationwide.

Comrade Philip Shaibu made the remark in a statement while presiding as chairman at the 2026 Public Health Awareness and Wellbeing Conference. The event was jointly organized by the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel, Alliance Hospital, and Dr. Physiq Global Health & Wellness Centre, and held at the NUJ FCT Council Secretariat in Utako, Abuja.

The conference theme was “Products Integrity, Regulatory Compliances, and Safety Standards – tackling critical challenges in product safety, patients trust, and public health protection.” Shaibu used the platform to stress that Nigerians must treat health as a top priority.

“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,” Shaibu said. “Whether you like it or not, health is wealth.”

The NIS boss urged all partners involved in the initiative to maintain their collaboration and called on professional bodies like the Nigerian Medical Association to follow the example set by the correspondents. “All partners to this programme should not stop at this point. It is important that the Nigerian Medical Association and other professional bodies emulate what the Correspondents’ Chapel is doing today. You should also be part of it,” he stated.

Shaibu also shared reforms currently underway at the National Institute for Sports, revealing that he introduced a mandatory fitness routine shortly after assuming office. “At NIS, we dedicate at least one hour on Tuesday and Thursday to exercise, to keep fit. I’m sure you are aware of the progress reports since I came on board,” he said. He further credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as a visionary appointment.

In a strong message to public office holders, Shaibu warned against indolence and overreliance on government funding. “Leaders must stop making excuses and begin to think outside the box. We cannot always wait for government funding before doing what is necessary,” he argued.

He announced a major achievement at NIS, noting that the institute now employs a certified medical doctor trained specifically for 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 explained that these reforms were carried out without waiting for budget releases. “Yes, the NIS budget has been passed, but we don’t have to wait for its release before carrying out meaningful reforms. What we are doing now is a replication of what I did as Deputy Governor in Edo State,” Shaibu said.

Looking to the future, he expressed confidence in Nigeria’s ability to compete internationally. “I can assure Nigerians that going forward, we will be participating in all international competitions, including future World Cups. Only when we embark on services that work will Nigeria truly become better for all of us,” he added.

Shaibu also paid a heartfelt tribute to journalists, describing them as the bedrock of democracy. He recalled a personal experience during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, saying the media saved his life. “You, as journalists, are the heart of our democracy. I experienced your courage during the struggle. If you had not done what was necessary, I might not be here today sharing this testimony,” he said.

He narrated how a journalist exposed the continued detention of certain individuals after others had been freed, a report that eventually led to his own release. “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,” Shaibu added.

The conference featured a keynote address by Dr. Abdulrahaman M. Huzaifa and a guest lecture by Dr. Christopher Otabor. The host was Comrade Felix Ojo, Chairman of the NUJ FCT Correspondents’ Chapel, while Comrade Grace Ike, Chairman of NUJ FCT Council, served as Chief Host. Free medical diagnostic services were offered to all participants as part of the programme’s commitment to preventive healthcare.