By:: Our Reporter Calabar
The ancient city of Calabar recently came alive as hundreds of fitness enthusiasts, community leaders, and stakeholders joined the sixth edition of the Calabar Walkathon, organized by the Healthy Billionaires Fitness Club.
This year’s walk focused on creating awareness for autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders, with a call on society to embrace, support, and integrate people living with the condition.
Speaking at the flag-off, Cross River Governor, Senator Bassey Otu represented by the speaker of Cross River House of Assembly, Rt Hon Elvert Ayambe commended the initiative, describing it as timely and socially impactful.
He noted that in the past, conditions such as autism were wrongly attributed to witchcraft or family curses, leading to stigmatization and even harmful cultural practices.
“Autism has nothing to do with witchcraft. An autistic child is not a witch; an autistic child deserves the right to live, to be educated, and to be given opportunities to thrive,” he emphasized.
He lauded the Healthy Billionaires for using the platform of fitness to promote advocacy and pledged the state government’s support for the initiative.
In his remarks, Mr. Williams Archibong, Chairman of the Healthy Billionaires Fitness Club, explained that the Walkathon was conceptualized in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic as a tool to raise awareness on pressing social issues while promoting health and wellness.
“Every year, we pick a theme that addresses societal challenges. We’ve tackled drug abuse, mental health, depression, and peace and security. This year, we are focusing on autism and other neuro disorders because these people are part of our society and deserve love, care, and inclusion,” Archibong said.
He recalled how the club’s advocacy in 2021 led to the establishment of a rehabilitation center for drug abuse in Cross River State, the first of its kind in the South-South region, noting that the government and private sector have been receptive to their campaigns.
He also used the occasion to appreciate their sponsors and partners for standing firmly behind the vision.
On the prevalence of autism, Bassey Archibong, a member of Healthy Billionaire Fitness Club, stressed that it is a global issue, not limited to Cross River or Nigeria, but awareness levels in Africa remain low.
He said the Walkathon seeks to change narratives, combat stigmatization, and educate communities that autistic children are “special, not cursed.”
The 2025 edition witnessed an expanded turnout compared to previous years, with more sponsors, partners, and service providers on board.
Participants also benefitted from a medical screening exercise, wellness services, and advocacy talks from health professionals and support groups.
The Walkathon ended with renewed calls for an inclusive society where people living with autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions can thrive without stigma, discrimination, or neglect.
