Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The 2023 Media Games in Anambra State have ended with a call for journalists and Nigerians to embrace sporting activities and exercise for overall well-being and healthy living.
The traditional ruler of Umueri, Igwe Benneth Emeka, made the call while performing the ceremonial kick off of a novelty match between the NUJ team and Catholic Priests at the ABS field, Awka Anambra State.
He stressed that the media and other professionals should engage in sports and keep fit at all times despite their busy job schedule, noting that exercise plays a vital role in the overall well-being of every individual.
The 2023 NUJ games started with a walk for life which saw members of the council defile morning rains and trekked from the Press Center to Arroma Junction and back to the Press Center.
Afterwards, games like eating and drinking competition, tug of war and skipping among others featured where State Information Chapel took the first position in eating and drinking competition and five chapels including the Anambra Broadcasting Service, State Information, Moment FM jointly took the first position in tug of war.
The novelty football match between the NUJ and Catholic priests from Awka and Ekwulobia dioceses ended in 1-1 draw, after Catholic priests took the lead in the first half through Reverend Father Uche Ogwata, while the NUJ team got a late equaliser after a fantastic finish from Stephen Okoye.
Addressing journalists, the Chairman on the occasion, Mr Ken Nwogbo, a publisher, said such activities are needed to keep body and soul healthy.
He thanked the NUJ executive, the organisers and sponsors of the event for putting such activities in place for the health benefits of members.
On his part, another Stakeholder, Mr Arnold Ekweoba said he decided to sponsor the event because of the long-lasting relationship he has with journalists as according to him, he made it in life through publicity.
Mr Ekweoba, urged media professionals to use their media power to liberate themselves and promised to train interested journalists for free in the business of of estate management.
He also charged them to venture into other money making ventures to diversify their means of revenue generation especially in the face of economic challenges in the country.
The Chairman Nigeria Union of Journalists Anambra State council, Comrade Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, said the annual event is an opportunity for journalists to come together and enjoy themselves.
He explained that the game was organized as part of activities to mark the 2023 NUJ Media Games, given the importance of physical fitness to human health.
Comrade Odogwu appreciated all who made out time to be part of the programme especially Igwe Ben Emeka of Umueri and Mr Arnold Ekweoba for partnering the union.
Chairman of the organising committee, Dr Stanley Onunkwor, appreciated all who contributed to the success of the 2023 games. He stressed for media professionals to engage in sports and keep fit at all times despite their busy job schedule.
