India Urges Nigerians to Adopt Yoga for Better Ageing, Wellness

The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Abhishek Singh, has urged Nigerians to embrace yoga as a daily practice, saying it remains one of the most effective ways to promote healthy ageing and overall wellness.

Singh made the appeal on Saturday in Abuja during the celebration of the 12th International Day of Yoga held at the Velodrome of the National Stadium, ahead of the global observance marked annually on June 21.

The event, themed “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” brought together diplomats, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, students, wellness enthusiasts and representatives of the Indian community in Nigeria.

Speaking at the gathering, the envoy described yoga as an ancient discipline with enduring global relevance, noting that it supports both physical vitality and mental stability across all stages of life.

He said consistent practice of yoga could help reduce the risk of age-related illnesses while improving flexibility, strength and emotional balance.

“Many ailments associated with old age can be avoided through the practice of yoga,” Singh said. “If you practise yoga consistently, it helps you remain active, healthy and mentally alert as you grow older.”

According to him, yoga has gained global recognition because of its holistic approach to health, combining physical postures, breathing techniques and meditation to promote harmony between the body and mind.

He added that in today’s fast-paced world, yoga offers individuals a structured way to manage stress, improve focus and maintain emotional balance.

“Yoga provides a dedicated space to breathe deeply, reduce stress and cultivate mental clarity. It improves balance, flexibility, strength and mobility while supporting mental well-being,” he said.

Singh described yoga as a universal wellness practice that transcends cultural and religious boundaries, saying it continues to unite people across different countries in pursuit of healthier lifestyles.

He recalled that the United Nations General Assembly declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014, following a proposal by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in recognition of yoga’s growing global acceptance.

The envoy expressed satisfaction with the turnout at the Abuja celebration, describing it as evidence of increasing awareness of yoga’s benefits among Nigerians and the international community.

“The theme this year is Yoga for Healthy Ageing, and people are increasingly recognising its importance not only for physical health but also for mental well-being,” he said.

“I see a sea of humanity united here today, demonstrating how yoga brings people together across borders, languages and cultures for the common purpose of promoting good health.”

Singh commended the National Sports Commission, the High Commission of India, corporate partners and other stakeholders for supporting the event, urging participants to incorporate yoga into their daily routines.

He encouraged Nigerians to see yoga not just as exercise but as a lifestyle practice that promotes peace, discipline and emotional stability.

“Let us practise yoga to connect with ourselves, promote harmony and carry a sense of peace and tranquillity into our everyday lives,” he added.

The International Day of Yoga is observed annually around the world to raise awareness of the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of the practice and to encourage healthier living across all age groups.