By Chinyere Nwoye
The people of Anambra State joined the international community on Saturday to commemorate the 2026 Olympic Day Run, promoting fitness, peace, unity and healthy living among residents.
Hundreds of participants from different walks of life converged in Awka for the exercise, demonstrating enthusiasm for sports and physical fitness through the annual global event.
The participants walked from Aroma Junction through the UNIZIK Temporary Site Junction and Kwata Junction before ending the exercise at the Awka Township Stadium.
Sports enthusiasts, athletes, fitness experts, football lovers and members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra State chapter, actively participated in the event.
Also present was the Chairman of the Anambra State Football Association, Mr. Chikelue Iloenyosi, who joined other stakeholders in promoting the values of the Olympic movement.
The Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Agha-Mba, led the participants and encouraged residents to embrace sports as a practical way of staying healthy and physically fit.
Agha-Mba said the Olympic Day Run promotes peace, love, friendship, togetherness and healthy living, noting that sports remain a powerful tool for social integration and development.
The commissioner also commended the Healthy Living Initiative of the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, saying the programme has inspired many residents to adopt healthier lifestyles through regular physical activities.
Speaking on behalf of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Miss Jane Okoye described Olympic Day as a celebration of movement, confidence, friendship and unity, adding that sports continue to unite people across cultures and give participants a strong sense of belonging.
She urged residents to sustain the culture of regular exercise, stressing that embracing sports would improve physical wellbeing, strengthen communities and promote healthier lifestyles across Anambra State.
Chinyere Nwoye is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
