A Bill for an Act to provide for a National Fitness Day for Nigerians,passed second reading in the House of Representatives.
The sponsor of the Bill , Diri Douye (PDP-Bayelsa), said that the bill when passed would seek the first Saturday in June as "National Fitness Day" in Nigeria.
Douye said that the Bill seeks to encourage and inspire the physical and health fitness of the nation.
Leading the debate, Douye argued that lack of physical activities resulted to poor health and in some cases death which in turn had negative impact on the economy in terms of healthcare or loss of manpower.
Further speaking, Douye said the World Health Organization (WHO) ascribes lack of exercise as many causes as one in 10 premature death around the world each year on the negligence of fitness.
"Exercise has long been known to lower risk factors like high blood pressure, high blood sugar and high cholesterol which in turn reduces the risk of heart diseases and diabetics," he said.
The lawmaker said that the bill thus encouraged the country's local and state governments, non governmental organizations.
He said it would also encourage the private sector and all Nigerians to recognise fitness day and mark the day with local events and initiatives promoting the importance and use of recreational sport and fitness facilities.
Douye said that the national fitness day would present an uparalled prospects to propagate the world about the benefits of keeping fit.
"If more Nigerians were physically active for just 30 minutes a day, the Nigerian health care system and the economy can save billions of Naira yearly, while creating a healthier community," he said.
He also stated that it would also engage, educate and empower all Nigerians to adopt a healthy lifestyle that include regular, physical activities and good nutrition.
According to Douye it would promote programmes and initiatives that motivate people of all ages, background and abilities to live a healthy life," he added.
Also contributing to the Bill, Rep. Ayo Omidiran (APC-Osun) said that the bill if passed would be taken to the grass root to prevent diseases.
"We will use the day to advocate to the people to understand the benefits of staying healthy and eating well to live longer.
"One major advantage is that we will use this National day of fitness as awareness creation.
The Bill was unanimously adopted by members.
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