The Office of the Head of Service has expanded the State’s monthly aerobics exercise to include competitive races and team games, aimed at promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and work-life balance among civil servants.
The new features were unveiled during this month’s edition of the wellness programme, held at the U.J. Esuene Sports Stadium in Calabar.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to make the exercise more engaging and inclusive for workers across ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).
Activities at the well-attended event included relay races, sack races, and other fun-filled team competitions, which fostered a spirited atmosphere of camaraderie and healthy rivalry.
Medical professionals were also on hand to conduct basic health checks, offering participants the opportunity to monitor vital health indicators and receive preventive care advice.
Speaking with journalists at the event, the Head of Service, Barr. Orok Okon, who has consistently led by example through his active participation since the programme’s inception, praised the growing enthusiasm among civil servants, noting that a healthy workforce is essential for improved productivity and efficient public service delivery.
Barr. Okon reaffirmed the Governor Otu administration’s commitment to staff welfare and wellbeing, while urging civil servants to uphold ethical conduct in all circumstances, hinting at further expansions to the programme in the near future.
Participants who spoke after the exercise described the session as a major stress reliever and a boost to mental health.
Mr. Bencourage Odey commended the initiative as a valuable investment in workers’ wellbeing.
“This programme is highly commendable because it encourages healthy living and creates awareness about the importance of regular exercise and medical checks. I encourage every civil and public servant to take advantage of this opportunity provided by the government for their own wellbeing,” he said.
Another participant, Mrs. Veronica Ebong, noted that the monthly programme has positively impacted the lifestyle of many workers.
“Beyond helping us stay physically fit, this programme gives us the opportunity to interact with colleagues from different MDAs, reduce workplace stress, and learn more about maintaining good health. I sincerely appreciate the Head of Service and the Cross River State Government for sustaining this initiative,” she stated.
Many other participants expressed appreciation for the programme, describing it as a refreshing break from routine office duties, while also promoting teamwork, healthier lifestyles, and stronger relationships among government workers.
The Monthly Aerobics and Medical Checks Programme continues to enjoy widespread support from civil servants, underscoring the Cross River State Government’s commitment to staff welfare, preventive healthcare, and a vibrant, productive Civil Service. Through the consistent leadership of the Office of the Head of Service, the initiative remains a key platform for encouraging healthy living and enhancing service delivery across the State.
By Kera Okem and Ana Ekuma
