The Academic Staff Union of Universities at Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu Alike, Ikwo branch, has started a one week sporting programme to improve the health and welfare of its members.
The event began on Monday, 23rd February, 2026, at the university’s main football field in Ndufu Alike and was officially opened by the Vice Chancellor, Daniel Nwachukwu.
Mr Nwachukwu praised the union for the initiative and described regular exercise as important for long life and effective work.
“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 assured participants of the management’s support, adding that healthy lecturers are vital to academic excellence. He also said he adjusted his schedule to attend the programme as a sign of commitment to staff welfare.
The Chairman of ASUU in the university, Louis Omenyi, explained that the programme includes sports activities, medical screening, and scholarship support for needy students.
According to him, the initiative was approved by the union’s national leadership due to rising cases of stress related deaths among lecturers.
He said records of deceased academics in recent years led the National Executive Council to introduce 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.
Mr Omenyi added that scholarship awards were included as part of the union’s social responsibility.
He stated that the national body selected two indigent but outstanding students from each of its 90 branches, with each beneficiary receiving N200,000.
He said the AEFUNAI branch increased the number of beneficiaries from two to 12 by supporting 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 hope that the programme, which will now be held every year, would promote unity among members and encourage regular exercise and health checks.
Participants took part in football, track races, volleyball, lawn tennis, and other sporting events.
ASUU, founded in 1978, represents academic staff in public universities and continues to campaign for better funding, improved working conditions, and stronger education policies in Nigeria.
