Step Up for Wellness: DEPOWA Rallies Barracks Women to Embrace Daily Fitness Routine
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
The President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs. Oghogho Musa, has called on women residing in military and police barracks across the country to adopt regular physical exercise as a lifestyle to improve both their physical and mental well-being.
Mrs. Musa made this passionate appeal during the association’s monthly aerobics and health walk held on Saturday in Abuja.
She revealed that the association plans to incorporate hiking and yoga into the routine to diversify the activities and keep the women motivated.
“We are building a culture of fitness. It’s not just a one-off event. We want our women to be able to exercise on their own even from home,” she said.
To sustain the momentum, DEPOWA has created a digital platform where participants can share videos of their daily “walk for life” sessions.
According to Mrs. Musa, this initiative will help monitor progress and promote accountability within the group.
She emphasised the importance of proper nutrition alongside exercise, noting that “80 per cent of our overall health comes from what we eat, while exercise makes up just 20 per cent it tones the body, but food is key.”
Wife of the Chief of Staff to the President, Mrs. Salamatu Gbajabiamila, who graced the event as the guest of honour, lauded the initiative.
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She noted that walking around the neighborhood is a simple yet highly effective fitness strategy that doesn’t require any equipment.
Popular Nollywood actress and fitness enthusiast, Mercy Johnson-Okojie, also joined the walk and highlighted the critical link between fitness and maternal health.
“As women, especially expectant mothers, it’s important to stay active and eat right. A healthy woman makes for a healthy baby and a happy home,” she said.
Health expert Dr. Oluwayisi Adegboye from the Defence Health Maintenance Limited, also spoke at the event.
She described physical activity as a powerful preventive tool against both physical and mental ailments.
“Exercise is the best medicine, the best gift, and the best investment for your health. It helps reduce the risk of conditions like hypertension, obesity, diabetes, arthritis, and even mental health challenges,” she stated.
The event wrapped up with renewed enthusiasm among participants, who pledged to continue their fitness journey while encouraging others to join the movement.
With DEPOWA leading the charge, a new wave of health consciousness is taking root in the nation’s barracks one step at a time.
Step Up for Wellness: DEPOWA Rallies Barracks Women to Embrace Daily Fitness Routine