ABUJA, Nigeria – Nigeria is facing a silent but deadly epidemic. The surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—hypertension, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease—is threatening lives and overwhelming a fragile healthcare system. While lifestyle diseases are preventable, they are on the rise, driven by urbanisation, poor nutrition, and most significantly, the lack of physical activity. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has consistently warned that exercise is one of the most cost-effective forms of preventive healthcare, yet millions of Nigerians find it inaccessible. In this report, Koko Maxwella, examines how structural barriers, cultural norms, and economic realities are discouraging exercise and fuelling a nationwide health crisis.
What Are Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)?
Non-communicable diseases are medical conditions not directly caused by infections. They include cardiovascular diseases (heart attacks, strokes), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes.
According to Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), NCDs now account for nearly 30% of annual deaths in Nigeria. Globally, about 40% of NCD-related deaths occur in people aged 30 to 69. These illnesses are not only deadly but also financially draining, forcing families to spend their savings on prolonged treatments while reducing workplace productivity.
Why Exercise Matters
The benefits of exercise are well documented. WHO recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity weekly, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
Regular physical activity reduces the risk of heart disease, helps regulate blood sugar, lowers blood pressure, and combats obesity. Importantly, exercise also improves mental health, reducing stress and improving focus. Yet, for millions of Nigerians, daily exercise is a luxury they cannot afford—not for lack of willpower, but because of systemic barriers.
The Link Between Physical Inactivity and Rising Health Costs
Every skipped workout has long-term consequences. Nigeria’s healthcare system is already stretched thin, with limited resources diverted to treat conditions that could have been prevented by regular exercise and balanced diets.
Hypertension and diabetes, for instance, require lifelong management and medication. According to public health experts, the cost of treating these diseases is far greater than the cost of preventive action such as building walkways, subsidising fitness programmes, or investing in public parks. Without urgent intervention, lifestyle diseases threaten to drain both individual incomes and national health budgets.
Urban Planning: A Barrier to Healthy Living
Rapid urbanisation in cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt has created environments hostile to exercise. Walkways are scarce or non-existent, streets are unsafe, and green spaces are either poorly maintained or inaccessible.
Heavy traffic and security risks discourage walking or jogging. In essence, urban planning has failed to prioritise human health, making daily exercise a near-impossible task for ordinary residents.
Gyms: A Luxury for the Few
While gyms and private fitness clubs exist in major cities, their costs are prohibitive. Membership fees range from ₦10,000 to ₦50,000 monthly—well beyond the reach of average Nigerians struggling with inflation and stagnant wages.
In rural areas, such facilities are almost non-existent, creating a two-tiered system where wellness becomes elitist and accessible only to the wealthy. This lack of affordability reinforces inactivity and widens health inequalities.
Voices from the Streets
In separate interviews with Africa Health Report, (AHR), on the streets of Abuja, the nation’s capital city, some residents shared their experience.
Chika Okoro, a 25- year- old, Abuja resident said, “Exercising has improved my energy and reduced my stress. Even a short jog in the morning lifts my mood and keeps me motivated.”
George Ali, a Kubwa resident shared his bitter experience explaining, “I want to exercise, but gyms are expensive, and it’s not safe to jog in my area after work. I know my health is at risk, but what options do I have?”
Ada, a Garki resident who speaks from a harrowing experience after facing health challenges, began daily exercises at home. “Gradually, my stamina and overall health improved. Exercise is life-changing, but many don’t have the space or resources to begin.”
Chidinma Okeke, a 34- year- old, office worker in Abuja said, “I want to exercise, but where do I go? Roads are unsafe, gyms are expensive, and after work, I’m too tired to think about it.”
These stories highlight a stark reality: Nigerians are aware of the benefits of exercise but are trapped in environments that make it almost impossible.
Expert Insights
Public Health Advocate, Dr. Fatima Bello said “We need to make exercise accessible to everyone, not just the wealthy. Free community fitness programmes and safe public spaces could transform public health in Nigeria.”
Gym Instructor, Mr. Emmanuel Obinna said “Exercise is not just about body image—it prevents disease and enhances quality of life. But the lack of affordable facilities leaves too many people behind.”
He continued, “People who commit to regular exercise notice real changes in stamina and confidence. But cost, safety, and lack of affordable facilities hold many backs.”
The Way Forward
Experts agree that tackling Nigeria’s NCD crisis requires collective effort—beyond individual determination. Solutions include investment in Public Spaces: Governments must build and maintain safe, accessible parks, walking tracks, and recreational centres.
Community-Based Programmes: Affordable initiatives such as walking clubs, school sports, and community aerobics can create a culture of activity.
Policy Interventions: Incentives for fitness-friendly workplaces, subsidies for community sports, and improved physical education in schools can drive long-term change.
Awareness Campaigns: Culturally sensitive health campaigns in local languages can correct misconceptions about exercise.
Private Sector Partnerships: Affordable gym options, free fitness apps, and workplace wellness initiatives can extend opportunities beyond elite circles.
Nigeria’s rising burden of lifestyle diseases is a ticking time bomb. Yet, this is one crisis that can be prevented. Regular physical activity, combined with balanced nutrition, remains the simplest and most powerful weapon against hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. The challenge is not awareness, but accessibility.
The fight against NCDs cannot be left to individuals alone. Policymakers must act with urgency, communities must mobilise, and the private sector must innovate. On a personal level, Nigerians can take small but consistent steps—walking daily, stretching at home, or joining community fitness groups. Every move counts. Nigeria now stands at a crossroads: ignore this silent epidemic or take decisive action to build a healthier, stronger nation. The time to act is now.
