Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo announced on Sunday that he has had diabetes for more than 40 years.
For more than four decades, he has relied on lifestyle discipline, a good diet, frequent exercise, adequate rest, routine medical visits, and rigorous adherence to prescribed medicine to manage his illness.
Obasanjo spoke during the opening of the “Lagos to the World” expedition, a global trek to raise cancer awareness, early detection, and African integration. The ceremony took place at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The former president stressed the importance of healthy living and early medical intervention, while praising the project founded by entrepreneur and BMW aficionado Erik Nwagwu in remembrance of his late mother and sister, both of whom died of cancer.
He applauded Nwagwu for turning a personal tragedy into a cause that could benefit many others.
Speaking about his own health journey, Obasanjo stated, “I have an illness that is not yet curable, which is diabetes. I was diagnosed with diabetes almost 40 years ago. “I still manage it.”
The former president revealed that following a strict living routine has allowed him to stay physically active despite his age.
“So, what do I do? I play squash three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, if I can. I watch what I consume.
“Diet can be fun and joyful. However, unhealthy eating habits might have negative effects for your health. “And then rest,” he added.
He believes that enough rest is just as vital as correct nutrition and exercise, and he describes his approach to healthy living as “DREMS”.
“So food, rest, and exercise are extremely vital. “And then there’s what I call DREMS, which stands for Diet, Rest, Exercise, and Medical,” Obasanjo continued.
He emphasised the need of early detection and routine medical screening, asking Nigerians to take their health checkups seriously.
Previously, Nwagwu stated that the “Lagos to the World” expedition will be carried out in stages, culminating in a round-the-world trip next year.
Nwagwu added that one of the expedition’s primary goals is to increase awareness about prostate cancer, particularly among African males.
“Prostate cancer, especially among black men, particularly in sub Saharan Africa, is the leading cause of cancer related deaths in males, and many people do not go for testing,” he stated.
He announced that the initiative, in collaboration with Zuri Health, is providing free screenings.
Nwagwu stated that the mission’s other main goals are to improve African integration and promote a positive perception of Nigeria.
“Africa’s issues must be solved inside Africa. And you are aware of the story around Nigerians and Nigeria. The majority of news coverage is unfavourable. The good ones do not spread as widely. “There are many Nigerians doing great things,” he stated.