Indian Envoy Urges Nigerians to Embrace Yoga for Healthy Ageing

By Iyojo Ameh

The Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Abhishek Singh, has called on Nigerians to embrace yoga as a practical tool for healthy ageing, saying the ancient practice can help prevent age-related illnesses and promote lifelong physical and mental well-being.

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

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

Addressing participants, the envoy described yoga as a timeless gift from India to humanity and an effective means of maintaining health, vitality and mental balance throughout life.

“Many ailments associated with old age can be avoided through the practice of yoga,” Singh said. “The message we want to convey is that if you practise yoga consistently, you can remain youthful and healthy even as you grow older.”

According to him, the increasing global popularity of yoga stems from its ability to improve physical fitness, strengthen mental resilience and foster harmony between the body, mind and spirit.

He noted that in today’s fast-paced and stressful world, yoga offers a much-needed opportunity for people to reconnect with themselves through breathing exercises, stretching, mindfulness and controlled movement.

“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 emphasized that yoga has evolved into a universal language of wellness that transcends nationalities, cultures and religious backgrounds, bringing people together through a shared commitment to healthier living.

The diplomat recalled that the United Nations General Assembly adopted June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014 following a proposal by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in recognition of yoga’s global appeal and benefits.

Speaking on the significance of the large turnout at the Abuja event, Singh said the gathering reflected the growing acceptance of yoga across different communities and countries.

“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.”

He commended the National Sports Commission, officials of the High Commission of India, corporate partners and other stakeholders for supporting the event and urged participants to make yoga a regular part of their daily routines.

“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 yoga and encourage healthier lifestyles among people of all ages.