Habu Gumel, President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, NOC, has called on Nigerians to participate actively in the 2026 Olympic Day scheduled for June 27 nationwide.
Gumel said the annual event, organized under the auspices of Olympic Solidarity in collaboration with the NOC Sport-for-All Commission, would promote healthy living through regular physical activity.
He said the celebration would serve as a platform for Nigerians of all ages to embrace the Olympic values of excellence, friendship and respect.
Gumel noted that regular exercise was vital for healthy living, adding that simple activities such as jogging and walking could help burn calories, strengthen muscles and reduce stress.
According to him, this year’s celebration will also focus on bridging generational gaps by encouraging interaction between young and older persons through sports and recreational activities.
The NOC president said the committee had already sent invitation letters to all states of the federation following the impressive participation recorded in 2025.
Also Read: Nigeria Olympic Committee set for 2024 Olympic Day celebration- Official
He urged state sports councils to commence early preparations to ensure the success of the nationwide event.
Gumel also appealed to corporate organizations and individuals to support the initiative through sponsorships and partnerships.
He said such support would not only enhance the success of the program but also offer partners visibility while contributing to national unity and improved public health.
Also speaking, Chairman of the NOC Sport-for-All Commission, Abdul Ibrahim, said the 2026 edition would emphasise inclusiveness and social engagement.
Ibrahim encouraged participants to invite others to join in physical activities, noting that shared exercise increases motivation and overall wellbeing.
In previous editions, Olympic Day was marked by structured races of 10 and 5 kilometers, but organizers say the format has been revised in response to public feedback.
Chairman of the commission and President of the Weightlifting Federation of Nigeria, Dr Abdul Ibrahim, had urged participating states to maximize the opportunity to mobilize their communities and build a culture of fitness through sport.
NAN
