Prof. Salisu Usman flags off monthly exercise at University Stadium; initiative aligns with national calls to tackle sedentary lifestyles on campuses.
By Danjuma Amodu
The Vice-Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Professor Salisu Ogbo Usman, has flagged off a monthly fitness exercise aimed at promoting healthy living and improving the physical wellbeing of staff and students.
The maiden edition held on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at the University Stadium, drawing a large turnout of staff, students and sports enthusiasts who took part in fitness activities designed to enhance 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,” reaffirming the saying that “Health is Wealth.”
The initiative comes amid growing concerns over sedentary lifestyles and stress-related illnesses on Nigerian campuses. With long lecture hours and rising screen time, several universities including UNILAG, ABU and UNIBEN have adopted structured wellness programs in line with national campaigns by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development to curb non-communicable diseases.
“Regular participation in physical exercise would not only improve individual health but also enhance productivity and academic performance across the university community.”
He commended the Sports Director, Mr. Moses Balogun, as well as staff and students, for turning out in large numbers for the maiden edition, describing the response as a demonstration of their commitment to healthy living and collective wellness.
Since assuming office, Prof. Usman has prioritized welfare-driven initiatives beyond academics, from staff training to infrastructure upgrades. The fitness day fits into his broader “healthy campus, productive community” agenda, aimed at boosting morale, reducing absenteeism, and improving academic output.
The Vice-Chancellor noted that the initiative forms part of broader efforts to entrench a wellness culture on campus and reduce lifestyle-related health risks among members of the university community.
