Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has called on civil servants in the state to prioritize physical fitness as part of efforts to boost their overall well-being and productivity.
The governor made the statement during the final match of the maiden 2024 Oyo State Public/Civil Service Week football competition between Security/Safety and Education Sector.
The games, which featured several competitive matches among state ministries recorded thrilling moments as various teams battle each other to book a spot in each of next rounds.
This was as the Ministry of Education emerged victorious in a thrilling football match against the Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority (OYRTMA).
The game, which was the final match of the 2024 edition of the tournament which held at the main bowl of the Adamasingba Sports Complex, ended in a narrow 1-0 win for the Education Ministry, with a lone goal in the 35th minute of the second half.
Jimoh Mutairu of the Ministry of Education grabbed the lone goal for the ministry of education in the 35th minutes and setting the team up for the victory.
Speaking shortly before presenting the trophy to the winning team, Governor Makinde emphasized the importance of exercise in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, stating that physical fitness not only improves individual health but also enhances workplace performance.
The governor, who commended the organizers of the annual event; the Office of the Head of Service, the match officials and all participants at the event, noted that a reasonable investment was made to put the sporting facility in its current shape for the benefit of the people of the state.
“We want to encourage our civil servants to integrate physical activity into their daily lifestyles. When you exercise your body and you’re physically fit, it can also enhance your heartbeat and productivity at the workplace.” Makinde said.
The victory was met with celebrations from the Education Ministry, while OYRTMA’s players, despite the loss, received runner up medals and commendations for their sportsmanship.
It was a fitting display of both physical fitness and friendly competition, as civil servants across various sectors participated in the maiden edition of the annual tournament.
The Governor also lauded the initiative, which he expressed optimism would help promote the spirit of sportsmanship among workers and entrench a healthier state workforce.
“Through initiatives like the Civil Service Games, we hope to create a more vibrant and motivated civil service that will contribute significantly to the development of Oyo State,” he added.
Present at the event were the Chief of Staff and Secretary to the State Government; Honorable Segun Ogunwuyi and Professor Olanike Adeyemo, State Head of Service; Mrs. Olubunmi Oni mini, Commissioner for Youth and Sports; Miss Wasilat Adegoke, other members of the state executive Council, party chieftains, as well as top government officials.