The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Esther Didi Walson-Jack, on Saturday led civil servants in the May 2025 edition of the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA) Monthly Walking/Jogging Aerobic Exercise held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.
Walson-Jack, who served as the Chief Guest Jogger and Captain, commended the event as a testament to the commitment of public servants to healthy living and workplace productivity.
Addressing participants before the exercise, she applauded FEPSGA President, Comrade Amaebi Aluko, and his team for promoting physical wellness and unity across the service through regular fitness initiatives.
“The seamless organisation of last year’s Public Service Games remains fresh in our memory, marked by talent, discipline and the true spirit of the service,” she said.
The Head of Service also expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Rivers State for successfully hosting the 2024 edition of the Games, describing their hospitality as instrumental to its success.
Reflecting on her personal fitness journey, Walson-Jack said her participation in the monthly exercise dates back to her time as a Director and later as a Permanent Secretary.
“Physical wellness is not just a personal goal; it is a public service imperative. A healthy civil servant is a productive one. As leaders, we must not only preach wellness but lead by example,” she said.
She encouraged all civil servants—regardless of rank or fitness level—to make exercise a part of their lifestyle, describing it as a personal responsibility and a contribution to a vibrant and effective public service.
Walson-Jack called for continued support for FEPSGA initiatives, emphasising that sports activities promote national unity, team spirit, and well-being among civil servants.
She also announced that the 2025 Civil Service Week would hold in June, with a highlight being an International Civil Service Conference. She said the Week would feature various activities, including a special walking/jogging exercise on June 28 and an Awards Night for recognition and reward.
“We must all participate actively. As our Civil Service anthem says, we are marching to greatness,” she said.
Also, Mrs Patience Oyekunle, Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office in HCSF, called on public servants to prioritize their physical and mental well-being in order to enhance productivity and service delivery.
Oyekunle described the exercise as a bold step towards fostering a healthier, more energized, and resilient workforce.
“It is with immense joy and a deep sense of duty that I welcome you all to this fitness initiative. Today marks not just a beginning, but a commitment to well-being and excellence in public service,” she said.
She commended the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for providing visionary leadership and supporting reform-driven initiatives that promote holistic well-being.
“The presence of our leadership here today reflects our shared commitment to wellness. Leadership by example—in policy and personal discipline—remains a catalyst for national renewal,” she added.
Earlier, Mr Aluko, President commended the Head of Civil Service of the Federation for her unwavering support for sports and wellness in the public sector.
“We give God the glory. The Federation of Public Service Games is a product of the vision and commitment of the current Head of Civil Service, even from her days as a Permanent Secretary,” he said.
Aluko noted that as Permanent Secretary of Service Welfare, she ensured that MDAs actively participated in FEMSA’s fitness programs, particularly the Key Fit aerobic exercise initiative.
The event featured jogging, aerobics, and other physical exercises with participants drawn from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies.