The Unity Schools Old Students Association (USOSA) in Lagos is set to host a significant fitness rally, themed “Unity in Motion,” on Saturday, starting at 7:00 a.m. from the National Stadium, Surulere. This event is not merely a fitness walk; it symbolizes a celebration of shared heritage and a commitment to promoting physical well-being among alumni. The walk will follow a designated route through major streets in Surulere, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among participants. The organizers encourage attendees to wear USOSA or individual school-branded T-shirts, showcasing the diversity and unity of the alumni network, which represents various Unity Colleges across Nigeria. The event promises an atmosphere of vibrant energy, with music, hydration points, and ample opportunities for networking among professionals who share the common bond of having attended a Unity School.
This initiative underscores USOSA’s broader mission, which extends beyond reminiscing about shared school experiences. USOSA in Lagos is a collective of alumni residing or operating within the state. The association is deeply committed to contributing positively to society through various avenues, including educational development, professional networking, wellness initiatives, and community impact. The fitness walk embodies these values, demonstrating the group’s commitment to fostering a healthy and interconnected alumni network. By promoting physical wellness, USOSA recognizes its importance not only for individual well-being but also as a catalyst for a more vibrant and engaged community.
The fitness walk is open to more than just former students. USOSA has extended invitations to well-wishers and the wider community, embracing the spirit of inclusivity and shared purpose. Furthermore, civic and health partners have pledged their support, further amplifying the positive impact of the event. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of collective action in addressing community health and well-being. By opening the event to the wider community, USOSA aims to broaden its message of unity and inspire greater participation in initiatives that promote a healthy lifestyle.
The “Unity in Motion” theme resonates deeply with USOSA’s core values. The walk symbolizes the power of collective action and shared heritage in achieving common goals. It represents a commitment to unity, not just among alumni but also within the wider community. The theme also emphasizes the importance of movement and physical activity as a foundation for individual and collective well-being. Through this event, USOSA hopes to inspire a renewed focus on health and wellness, both within its alumni network and in the wider community. The theme encapsulates the idea that unity can be a driving force for positive change and that by working together, individuals and communities can achieve greater health and well-being.
The choice of the National Stadium as the starting point for the walk holds symbolic significance. As a venue traditionally associated with sporting activities and national unity, it serves as a fitting backdrop for an event that celebrates both physical well-being and the shared heritage of Unity School alumni. The circular route, which winds through prominent streets in Surulere, further reinforces the message of community and interconnectedness. The return to the National Stadium at the conclusion of the walk symbolizes the ongoing commitment to unity and wellness. The walk is designed not just as a one-time event but as a catalyst for sustained engagement in healthy activities and community building.
Mr. Chinedu Okoli, Team Lead of USOSANs in Lagos, highlights the dual purpose of the walk: “It is both a celebration of heritage and a call to national and community wellness.” This statement encapsulates the essence of the event, emphasizing the importance of honoring shared history while simultaneously looking forward to a healthier and more united future. The event is more than a social gathering; it’s a platform for promoting physical well-being and reinforcing the values of unity and service instilled by the Unity School system. Okoli’s invitation to the wider community further emphasizes the inclusive nature of the event: “We welcome anyone who believes in our vision of national unity and wellness to join us on this symbolic walk. The more diverse the participation, the stronger our message of unity becomes.” This open invitation reflects USOSA’s belief in the power of collective action and the importance of building bridges across diverse communities.
