Health advocates and wellness enthusiasts gathered in Lagos on Saturday for the 2026 edition of Wakathon, a global wellness initiative organised by Waka Community International Foundation in collaboration with Q-Life Family Clinic and the Health Emergency Initiative.
The event, themed around preventive healthcare and healthy living, also served as a memorial in honour of the late Dr. Ade Alakija, a former Medical Director of Q-Life Family Clinic and ex-Chairman of the Lagos State Health Management Agency.
The 10-kilometre non-competitive walk, which began and ended at the Catholic Church of Divine Mercy, Admiralty Way, Lekki Phase 1, attracted participants from across Lagos, while supporters in over 48 countries joined in solidarity walks globally.
Organisers said the initiative is aimed at encouraging Nigerians to adopt healthier lifestyles through simple daily habits such as regular walking, proper nutrition, hydration, quality sleep, and strength training. They emphasised that preventive healthcare remains key to building a healthier and more productive society.
Participants at the event benefitted from free medical screenings, including cardiovascular risk assessments, as well as health education sessions focused on nutrition, mental wellness, and healthy ageing. The outreach also featured entertainment, refreshments, and community engagement activities designed to make wellness accessible and enjoyable.
According to the organisers, Wakathon is part of a broader effort to shift health narratives in Nigeria from reactive care to preventive measures through grassroots engagement.
Founded in 2021, Waka Community International Foundation has grown into a global wellness movement with over 58,000 members across more than 48 countries. The organisation gained international recognition in 2025 following a major visibility campaign at Times Square in New York, highlighting the global relevance of African-led health initiatives.
The organisers expressed appreciation to partners and supporters, including corporate organisations, government agencies, and volunteers, for their contributions to the success of the event.
They also encouraged Nigerians to continue embracing walking and other healthy habits, noting that “a healthy nation is a wealthy nation.”
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