Anambra Rallies Residents For 2026 Olympic Day Run
State Government Calls for Community Participation
THE Anambra State Government has called on residents to participate actively in the 2026 Olympic Day Run, reaffirming its commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles, grassroots sports development and the ideals of the global Olympic Movement.
The Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Aghamba, made the appeal in a statement issued from Alaska, United States, and made available to journalists in Awka on Wednesday.
He encouraged people of all ages and backgrounds to turn out in large numbers for the event, describing it as an opportunity to celebrate fitness, unity and community engagement.
Event to Promote Olympic Values
According to Aghamba, the Olympic Day Run is scheduled to hold on Saturday 11 July, beginning at 7:00 a.m.
Participants will assemble at the ABS Compound in Awka before embarking on a community fun walk covering between three and five kilometres, with the route ending at the Awka Township Stadium.
He explained that Olympic Day is observed worldwide to commemorate the establishment of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) on 23 June 1894, while promoting the core Olympic values through the themes of Move, Learn and Discover.
The initiative, he noted, encourages physical activity, healthy living and inclusive participation regardless of age, gender or athletic ability.
Cultural and Sporting Activities Planned
Beyond the community walk, the celebration will feature cultural performances, fitness sessions and interactive engagements with distinguished Olympians and other notable sports personalities.
Aghamba said the programme demonstrates Anambra State’s solidarity with the Olympic Movement in Nigeria and reinforces efforts to inspire greater public interest in sports.
He stressed that the event is designed not only to encourage regular exercise but also to deepen appreciation for the values of excellence, friendship and respect associated with the Olympic Movement.
Government Seeks Strong Public Turnout
The commissioner appealed to residents, sports enthusiasts, schools, youth organisations and community groups to support the initiative through active participation.
He expressed confidence that a successful outing would further strengthen grassroots sports development while encouraging healthier lifestyles across the state.
According to him, broad public participation will contribute significantly to the success of the event and reinforce the state’s commitment to building a vibrant sporting culture.
