The High Commission of India in Nigeria has called for greater adoption of yoga as a tool for healthy ageing, wellness, and social harmony, as it hosted the 12th International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2026 celebration at the Velodrome of the National Stadium, Abuja.
Speaking at the event on Saturday, the High Commissioner-Designate of India to Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Abhishek Singh, described yoga as a timeless gift from India that continues to inspire millions of people across the world to pursue healthier and more balanced lives.
Addressing a gathering that included government officials, diplomats, members of the Indian community, students, and wellness enthusiasts, Ambassador Singh said the global observance of the International Day of Yoga reflects the universal appeal of the ancient practice.
He recalled that the United Nations General Assembly officially declared June 21 as the International Day of Yoga in 2014 following a proposal by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while yoga was later inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2016.
According to him, the 2026 theme, “Yoga for Healthy Ageing,” highlights the importance of maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being throughout life.
“Yoga embodies the union of mind, body, and soul. It promotes harmony between humanity and nature and offers a holistic approach to health and well-being,” he said.
The envoy noted that in today’s fast-paced world, yoga provides an opportunity for people to reduce stress, improve concentration, enhance flexibility and strength, and cultivate inner peace through breathing exercises, stretching, mindfulness, and gentle movements.
Describing yoga as a “secret superpower,” Ambassador Singh said the practice not only strengthens the body but also equips individuals with the ability to remain calm and focused amid life’s challenges.
He emphasized that yoga has transcended geographical boundaries, cultures, and languages to become a universal language of peace and wellness embraced by people of all backgrounds.
Quoting renowned yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar, he stated that yoga helps individuals maintain a balanced attitude in daily life while improving the quality of their actions and decisions.
The High Commissioner-designate expressed appreciation to the National Sports Commission, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, corporate partners, members of the Indian community, and all participants for supporting the successful organization of the event.
He urged participants to embrace yoga beyond the celebration, encouraging them to carry the values of harmony, tranquility, and self-awareness into their daily lives.
The event attracted prominent dignitaries, including Chief of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Babagana Wakil; High Commissioner-Designate of Nigeria to India, Ambassador Muhammad Saidu Dahiru; Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Dr. Shehu Dikko; and Director-General of the Commission, Dr. Bukola Olopade.
The celebration formed part of global activities marking the 12th International Day of Yoga, reinforcing the growing partnership between India and Nigeria in promoting health, wellness, and people-to-people relations.
