On Saturday 14th September Toyin Saraki and the Wellbeing Foundation joined thousands of people of all ages and abilities to walk from Millennium Park across central Abuja. The objective of the event was to engage the Abuja community in a celebration of healthy lifestyles, to advocate for Universal Health Coverage, and spread awareness of non-communicable diseases.

In a statement released by her office Mrs Saraki stated:

‘During Walk the Talk it was wonderful to see everyone come together to participate in a lively morning of physical activity, advocacy for Universal Health Coverage and to beat non-communicable diseases (NCDs).’

‘We can all reduce our risk of NCDs such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease by being mindful of risk factors and making healthy lifestyle choices. We know that behavioural factors such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet and harmful use of alcohol all increase our risks of NCDs. But these are behaviours we can change to protect ourselves. Being physically active, even if it is only for a short duration, is a great place to start.’

‘That is why I was so pleased to organise this event with our partners WHO Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Health. Even one step is a step in the right direction. It was a pleasure to participate with Minister for Youth and Sports Mr Sunday Dare, Minister for Health Dr Osagie Ehinare, actress Kate Henshaw, along with other heads of national agencies, development partners and members of the diplomatic community.

‘It was important for me to walk to show my commitment to Universal Health Coverage. Every single person should have access to the care they need when they need it. No one should be forced to suffer financial hardship or forgo treatment because they cannot afford it.’

The event built on the success of Walks the Talk events held in cities all around the world. Toyin Saraki and the Wellbeing Foundation will be participating in another Walk the Talk event held Sunday the 22nd of September as part of their involvement in the 74th United Nations General Assembly. This next Walk the Talk: The Health for All Challenge will be held in Central Park, New York, organised by the World Health Organisation, the United Nations and the City of New York.