By Joel Ajayi

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Ali M. Ali, has reiterated the Agency’s commitment to promoting a strong fitness culture, stating that regular exercise has remarkably boosted staff health, strengthened teamwork, and enhanced overall productivity.

Speaking during the Agency’s quarterly fitness walk on Saturday in Abuja, Ali described the initiative as a vital part of NAN’s workplace tradition, delivering profound physical and mental health benefits.

He noted that the fitness sessions, introduced three editions ago, have improved team bonding, raised staff morale, and created a more relaxed work atmosphere where hierarchy temporarily fades.

“A team that exercises together is a team that achieves together. During our fitness walks, there are no titles — everyone is simply a staff member. That camaraderie closes communication gaps and helps the organisation function more efficiently,” he said.

Beyond fostering unity, the programme has also produced measurable gains in staff wellbeing.
According to him, reports from the Agency’s clinic show a significant drop in cases of malaria, high blood pressure, and other common ailments — an improvement he attributes to stronger immunity and consistent physical activity.

“We run a functional clinic, and the reports show fewer cases of hypertension and general illness. Staff hardly visit for everyday complaints because regular exercise has strengthened their immune systems,” he said.

Ali revealed that NAN also operates a fully equipped gym where staff train every Wednesday and Friday, adding that management deliberately reduces work hours on exercise days to encourage participation.

Given the demanding nature of journalism, he stressed that physical fitness is even more essential. “Ours is a high-pressure profession. News gathering is stressful, and exercise helps us unload some of that pressure,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to be intentional about staying active, warning that sedentary lifestyles — made worse by urban living and carbohydrate-heavy diets — fast-track health decline.

“The body is designed for movement. Even simple walking can improve cardiovascular health, circulation, mood, and general wellbeing,” he advised.

Ali encouraged Nigerians to walk more, use staircases, minimise short-distance motorcycle and car rides, and adopt healthier habits such as intermittent fasting.

He commended the staff for their improved performance, noting that the 5.5km walk was completed in record time compared to previous editions — a clear sign of rising endurance and dedication.

Also speaking, NAN fitness instructor Sunny Alamu emphasised that regular exercise is essential for media professionals who spend long hours seated.

“Because of the nature of their work, staff sit for extended periods. Exercise boosts metabolism, improves circulation, and enhances general health. A healthy worker is a more productive worker,” he said

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