Sports
Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation Positions Fitness as a Driver of Economic Transformation
Joel Ajayi
Nigeria is set to witness a transformative shift in health, community engagement, and economic development as Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation of Nigeria unveil an ambitious nationwide fitness initiative designed to reposition the country as a global hub for wellness and physical activity.
The initiative seeks not only to improve public health but also to unlock economic opportunities within Nigeria’s fast-growing fitness industry.
Speaking on the vision behind the programme on Thursday in Abuja, the President of Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation of Nigeria Soye Elekima explained that the initiative is built on inclusivity and adaptability, recognizing that fitness needs differ based on occupation and lifestyle.
According to him, From market women and artisans to journalists and corporate professionals, tailored fitness routines are being promoted to suit diverse daily activities.
“At its core, the programme aims to return sports development to the grassroots by identifying and nurturing hidden talents within communities.”
He highlighted the importance of engaging young people at the street level, particularly those who may not have access to modern gym facilities but have developed strength and endurance through informal means.
“Beyond talent discovery, the initiative is also positioned as a social intervention strategy to redirect youthful energy away from negative influences.
“By providing structured fitness platforms, organisers believe the programme can help curb anti-social behaviours while promoting discipline, productivity, and national pride.
The project draws inspiration from Nigeria’s success stories in strength sports and bodybuilding, noting that many athletes have gained international recognition despite limited local support.
According to the organisers, this initiative will help amplify such talents and reposition Nigeria as a respected force in the global fitness space.
A major highlight of the programme is the establishment of “fitness villages” across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
These hubs will serve as centres for physical activities, exhibitions of modern fitness equipment and supplements, and professionally guided training sessions. Certified instructors will oversee operations, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
In addition, a nationwide digital integration plan will connect participants across the country in real time, fostering unity and shared experience. Nigerians from different regions will be able to see and engage with each other during events, reinforcing the concept of “one nation, one movement.”
To sustain participation, Elekima have aligned the initiative with a global fitness advocacy that encourages physical activity every last Saturday of the month. Citizens are urged to adopt regular movement routines, with a minimum target of 30 minutes of exercise daily for 30 days.
The long-term vision extends beyond health benefits.
The programme is projected to stimulate economic growth by attracting investment in fitness-related businesses, including equipment manufacturing, supplement distribution, apparel, and sports services. With potential participation from both local and international companies, thousands of jobs could be created across the value chain.
He, also warned of the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, stressing that preventive fitness initiatives are critical to reducing reliance on medication and improving quality of life.
President revealed that if successfully implemented, Nigeria could host the largest fitness movement in the world, positioning the country as a leader in health innovation and community-driven development.
Sports
From Boardroom To Battlefield: Corporate Giants Trade Deals For Goals As Third Edition Of Corporate Stars League Kicks Off
Joel Ajayi
Ten corporate giants are preparing to swap boardroom meetings, spreadsheets and strategy decks for football boots, tactical battles and bragging rights as the Corporate Stars League returns with a promise of fierce competition, corporate networking and business deals that could extend beyond the touchline.
For five weekends, beginning Saturday, October 24, 2026, participating organisations will battle for supremacy on the pitch, where boardroom influence counts for little without teamwork, skill, determination and the ability to find the back of the net.
This year, new contenders have thrown their hats into the ring, hoping to dethrone defending champions Norrenberger and prevent them from making it back-to-back titles.
But Norrenberger are not surrendering their crown without a fight. Their representative, Victor Olamide Mattews, insists the champions are ready to defend their title, warning challengers that stopping them will be no easy task.
The company’s ambition to simplify wealth creation and champion inclusive financial solutions appears to extend beyond the financial market, with the champions eager to establish their dominance on the football pitch as well.
Telecommunications giant MTN, whose slogan is “Everywhere You Go,” will also be looking to make a stronger impression after falling short last season. Their representative, Abubakar Bako says the team is returning with renewed determination, hoping to improve its performance and ensure that this time, its presence is felt across the competition.
The Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) is also taking its reach beyond financial statements and revenue collection to test its strength on the pitch. But whether its reform-driven approach can translate into football success remains another ball game entirely.
Meanwhile, the representative of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles (PI-CNG & EV), David Idakwo, says although this is the organisation’s first appearance in the competition, the team is ready to learn and challenge established conventions.
Similarly, Hassan Haruna of the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) says the organisation hopes to translate its financial discipline into tactical precision, sound decision-making and a winning performance on the pitch.
Then comes Beer and Barn, ready to bring its own flavour to the contest. Beyond the football, the hospitality brand offers grilled pub meals, shawarma, live-band performances and energetic DJ nights. Its representatives will hope to make their presence felt on the pitch as much as they do in the entertainment and hospitality scene.
However, the competition is not just about goals, celebrations and corporate bragging rights. With the Nigeria Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), the Pension Commission (PenCom) and Jaiz Bank also among the participating organisations, the banter is already gathering momentum.
From playful jibes about power supply and infrastructure to pension benefits, investment decisions and corporate expansion, the pre-tournament exchanges have added another layer of excitement to a competition where professional rivalries will temporarily give way to football banter.
But when the whistle blows, the real talking will have to be done with the ball. Every misplaced pass, missed chance and defensive lapse could prove costly, while a moment of brilliance could separate champions from challengers.
Speaking after the draws and unveiling of the teams, 5Stars Operations Manager, Misal Dikko, said this year’s edition promises a higher level of competition, with more participating teams and increased expectations from corporate management.
“We are going to have an interesting competition, especially with the number of participating teams and the level of expectations from management. They have shown they are ready to put their money where their mouth is by supporting their teams with all the necessary logistics,” Dikko said.
With ten corporate teams preparing to battle over five weekends, the Corporate Stars League promises more than football. It is a meeting point for competition, camaraderie, networking and business opportunities.
For the defending champions, the mission is to protect their crown. For the challengers, it is a chance to rewrite the story. And for every team, the ultimate objective is clear: turn corporate ambition into football glory.
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