The Kwara State University (KWASU) branch of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) made history on Friday, August 1st, 2025, by successfully hosting its inaugural “SSANU Wellness (Health) Day.” The event, held at the KWASU Business School Conference Hall, blended vital health education, practical check-ups, and compassionate community service under the resonant theme “Thriving Under Pressure: Managing Stress with Restorative Sleep and Nutrient-Rich Foods in Today’s Economy.”
The day commenced at 8:00 AM. with on-site medical screenings, providing members valuable insights into their health status.
The event enjoyed the esteemed presence and backing of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Shaykh-Luqman Jimoh, hailed by SSANU as a “diligent, committed, advocate of staff welfare and Union friendly” leader. His attendance, alongside his management team and other union leaders, underscored the university administration’s support for staff well-being initiatives
SSANU KWASU Chairman, Comrade AbdulSalam Jimoh Kannike, declared the Wellness Day the first of its kind in Nigerian university staff union history. He emphasized its necessity due to the demanding nature of members’ daily lives, both at work and home, highlighting that not all ailments require medication and advocating for holistic approaches like counselling, education, exercise, and water therapy.
The event directly addressed the challenges faced by Nigerians in the current economic climate. The core theme centered on practical strategies for managing stress through affordable, nutrient-rich food choices and prioritizing restorative sleep. Chairman Kannike urged members to actively participate and embrace positive changes for stress management and balanced living.
Dr. Nimat Bola Idris delivered the keynote lecture, delving deep into the theme. She explored the critical links between chronic stress, sleep quality, and nutrition, offering affordable strategies for maintaining a healthy diet despite economic pressures and equipping attendees with tools for physical and mental resilience.
Demonstrating that wellness extends beyond the individual, the SSANU Women’s Forum, led by Coordinator Comrade Lateefat Ranti Abdulkadir, organized a post-Jumat service visit to a local orphanage. Members delivered essential supplies, including food items, toiletries, and educational materials, purchased through collective donations. The visit included meaningful interactions with the children and caregivers, offering messages of hope and solidarity.
Chairman Kannike praised the unity and commitment of SSANU members, describing the union as a vital “system” embedding all needed professionals. He specifically commended the Women’s Forum for the orphanage initiative, stating “Women are great!”
The SSANU KWASU Wellness Day marked a significant milestone in staff welfare initiatives. By combining proactive health management education with tangible medical services and a profound act of community service, the event provided a comprehensive model for promoting well-being – proving that thriving under pressure involves caring for both oneself and the wider community. The successful event sets a precedent for future union-led wellness programs within Nigerian universities.
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