The Academic Staff Union of Universities at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo branch, on Monday began a week-long sporting fiesta to promote the health and well-being of its members.

The event, which commenced at the university’s main football field in Ndufu-Alike, was declared open by the vice-chancellor, Daniel Nwachukwu, a cardiovascular physiologist.

Mr Nwachukwu commended the union for the initiative, describing regular exercise as critical to longevity and optimal productivity.

“As a cardiovascular scientist, the importance of exercise cannot be overemphasised. Even 30 minutes of daily physical activity can prolong life, reduce medical expenses and improve brain function and overall well-being,” he said.

He pledged the institution’s support for the programme, noting that a healthy academic workforce was essential for sustaining academic excellence.

The vice-chancellor said he adjusted his official schedule to attend the event in demonstration of management’s commitment to initiatives that enhance staff welfare and institutional growth.

Louis Omenyi, chairman of ASUU AEFUNAI branch, said the sports fiesta was part of a three-pronged programme comprising sporting activities, medical checks and scholarship awards to indigent students.

Mr Omenyi said the initiative was approved by the national leadership of ASUU in response to concerns over the increasing cases of stress-related deaths among academics.

According to him, records of deceased university lecturers in recent years prompted the National Executive Council of the union to adopt proactive measures to improve members’ health and work-life balance.

“To address deaths linked to work-related stress, NEC resolved that branches should organise regular sporting activities and health checks for members. Beyond welfare concerns such as poor remuneration, many academics face intense workloads with little time for rest or routine medical examinations. This initiative is designed to encourage relaxation, bonding and preventive healthcare,” he said.

He added that the branch incorporated the presentation of scholarship awards into the week’s activities as part of ASUU’s social responsibility.

Mr Omenyi said the national body selected two outstanding but indigent students from each of its 90 branches nationwide, with each beneficiary receiving N200,000.

He said the AEFUNAI branch increased the number of beneficiaries in the institution from two to 12 by sponsoring 10 additional students.

“The gesture is aimed at cushioning financial challenges faced by brilliant students and reinforcing the union’s commitment not only to staff welfare but also to students’ academic success,” he said.

He expressed optimism that the event, which is to be held annually, would strengthen camaraderie among members and promote a culture of regular exercise and preventive health checks.

Members participated in football, men’s and women’s 100-metre and 50-metre track events, volleyball, lawn tennis, among other activities.

ASUU, established in 1978, is the umbrella body of academic staff in Nigerian public universities and has, over the years, advocated improved funding, better working conditions and policies aimed at strengthening the nation’s university system.

(NAN)