2025 World Walking Day : Experts Advocate Healthy Lifestyle As Staff, Residents Walk For Wellness
Saturday, 4th October 2025.
In commemoration of this year’s International World Walking Day, the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Aerobic group of the Physiotherapy department joined the rest of the world on Saturday, October 4, to promote the culture of walking as a simple but powerful tool for maintaining good health and overall well-being.
The event, which attracted Management and staff of the Hospital, community members, and fitness enthusiasts, began in the early hours of the morning at the Motor Traffic Department (MTD), Ibara and terminated in the premises of the hospital.
Participants claded in branded T-shirts and sneakers enthusiastically took to the streets of Abeokuta, covering 8 and half Kilometers within the space of 1hour, 45 minutes, spreading messages on healthy living, physical activity, and preventive healthcare.
Speaking shortly after the walk, Acting Medical Director, Dr. Adekunle Saheed Adediran emphasized that walking remains one of the most affordable and effective forms of exercise that improves heart health, mental alertness, and body metabolism.
He said healthcare professionals and organizers understood the importance of preventive medicine.
”Walking is not just a form of exercise, it is a lifestyle that helps prevent many non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.
“Today’s walk is a reminder that wellness begins with a single step,” Dr. Adediran said.
In his remarks, the Head of Physiotherapy department, Dr. Rahmon Olayinka Lateef commended the large turnout and urged participants to make walking a daily habit rather than an annual event.
He added that such initiatives align with the hospital’s vision of promoting a healthier and more active society.
Also while stressing on the importance of 30 minutes walk a day in human physical and mental well-being, the Deputy Director of the Physiotherapy services, Mr Alimi Talayor encouraged People not to restrict the idea of walking to poverty but should see it as a means of improving one’s health which according to him plays pivotal role in ensuring that muscles and veins work optimally.
Some participants described the experience as both refreshing and enlightening.
According to the Deputy Director, Administration, Alhaja Tajudeen Oyesiji “It’s not just about walking; it’s about building a community that values fitness and preventive health, I feel rejuvenated and inspired to make this a routine.”
Wth the theme: Walk into healthier future, the International World Walking Day, celebrated every October 4, is a global initiative aimed at encouraging people of all ages to embrace walking as a means of enhancing physical and mental health while fostering social connection and environmental sustainability.
With this year’s successful outing, the FMC Idi-Aba once again reaffirmed its commitment to promoting public health awareness and preventive healthcare through community-driven programmes.
Reporting: Aminat O Orunsolu, Yemi Adeyemi (Information and Public Relations Department).