The President of the Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Oghogho Musa has urged women to take exercise seriously from the comfort of their homes.
She said that regular physical activity promotes healthy living and helps prevent common health challenges.
Speaking during DEPOWA’s monthly aerobic exercise in Abuja, Mrs Musa said that “fitness does not require a gym subscription, as simple daily walks around the home or environment for at least 30 minutes could make a difference.”
She emphasised that the key goal is to remain active by moving the body, exercising the limbs, and sweating out toxins, which collectively boost wellness.
Mrs Musa advised women to aim for daily exercise, but where that is not possible, at least three sessions a week could help reduce body fat and guard against health risks such as high blood pressure and certain cancers.
According to her, “consistent movement enhances cardiovascular health, strengthens the body, and improves overall mental and physical well-being.”
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She stated that “the message of fitness extends beyond women to everyone, urging Nigerians to adopt exercise as part of their daily routine.”
The DEPOWA President further stressed that regular walking and physical activity play a vital role in disease prevention while also fostering a healthier and more energetic lifestyle.
Alongside fitness, Mrs Musa called on Nigerians to embrace cleanliness by properly disposing of waste to protect both their health and the environment.
She said maintaining a clean environment is as important as exercising, noting that men, women, children, teachers, and worshippers alike should avoid littering public spaces.
She warned against the habit of throwing refuse from moving vehicles or dumping non-biodegradable items, such as plastic bottles and nylon bags, into drainage systems.
Mrs Musa explained that “such poor waste disposal practices often result in blocked waterways, which in turn cause flooding during heavy rains—an avoidable problem if Nigerians take responsibility for their environment.”
Mrs Musa also urged parents and guardians to instil the habit of cleanliness in children from a young age, stressing that no child is too small to learn discipline and responsibility. Adults, she said, should lead by example, as personal responsibility in picking up waste could inspire others and foster a culture of cleanliness across homes, schools, religious centres, and communities.
A resource person at the event, public health expert, Dr Enobong Obot, advised women to pay closer attention to their heart health, saying the heart functions as the body’s engine and must be cared for to prevent disease.
She noted that heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death among women worldwide, yet is often neglected due to family and work responsibilities.
According to Dr Obot, risk factors such as uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, obesity, stress, physical inactivity, and high cholesterol significantly increase vulnerability.
She said that symptoms in women—including fatigue, back pain, jaw pain, dizziness, and shortness of breath—often differ from those experienced by men.
Dr Obot, urged women to adopt preventive lifestyle changes, starting with healthy eating habits: balanced meals with more vegetables, reduced salt, sugar and processed foods, and fewer late-night meals.
She further encouraged at least 30 minutes of physical activity three times a week, noting that “exercise does not necessarily require the gym, as simple activities like walking, dancing, skipping, or home aerobics can be equally effective.”
She said that “quitting smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and drinking more water are vital steps in maintaining a healthy heart.”
The health expert also stressed the importance of regular medical check-ups, especially for women with a family history of hypertension, stroke, or heart disease.
Life changes such as pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause, she explained, can affect the heart, making consistent monitoring essential.
Dr Obot reminded women that caring for their hearts translates into more energy, strength, and quality time with family.
“When women protect their hearts, they protect their homes, their families, and their future,” she added.