NOC Spearheads Olympic Day Festivities Nationwide in Nigeria

The The Nigeria Olympic Committee will organize the nationwide observance of Olympic Day on Saturday, June 28, in multiple states throughout the nation. This event aligns with the international effort to celebrate the establishment of the contemporary Olympic movement. PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The event this year, organized alongside the Nigeria Sports for All Commission, aims to include various activities designed to motivate people of all age groups and skill levels across Nigeria to adopt an active lifestyle and uphold the Olympic principles of excellence, camaraderie, and respect.

Olympic Day is observed annually to mark the establishment of the modern Olympic Movement by French nobleman Pierre de Coubertin in 1894.

This day provides a chance for individuals to immerse themselves in the essence of the Games at a local level, emphasizing involvement over rivalry.

In Lagos, where the NOC headquarters is located, a range of fitness-focused activities have been scheduled, featuring aerobics classes, running sessions, recreational displays, and demo events.

Similar programmes are expected to hold across the country, with several states already confirming their participation.

The NOC states that the day holds significant importance beyond just being symbolic; it aims to emphasize the health advantages of consistent physical activities like running and strolling, which aid in calorie burning, muscle toning, stress reduction, and enhanced psychological wellness.

"The Olympic Day celebration is an inclusive physical activity program aimed at encouraging Nigerians to get active, maintain good health, and embrace the essence of the Olympic ideals," stated Dr Abdul Ibrahim, who serves as the Chairperson of the NOC Sport For All Commission.

Ibrahim likewise called upon state sports councils and commissions to assume responsibility for the event and rally their communities for enthusiastic involvement.

In addition to promoting physical activity, this year’s edition will conclude with the presentation of official Olympic Day diplomas signed by the President of the International Olympic Committee, adding a formal recognition to the participants’ efforts.

The NOC has also called on corporate organisations and philanthropic individuals to support the celebration through financial assistance or product donations, noting that such contributions offer valuable visibility for sponsors while backing a national cause.

“Olympic Day is about uniting people through sport, and we’re encouraged by the positive response we’ve received from states so far,” said Tony Nezianya, NOC’s Public Relations Officer.

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