Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed that he has been managing diabetes for more than four decades.
Speaking at the launch of the “Lagos to the World” expedition, a global road journey aimed at promoting cancer awareness, early detection, and African integration, Obasanjo attributed his successful management of the condition to an active lifestyle, a disciplined diet, regular exercise, adequate rest, routine medical check-ups, and strict adherence to prescribed medications.
While commending the initiative conceived by entrepreneur and BMW enthusiast Erik Nwagwu in memory of his late mother and sister who died from cancer, the former president used the occasion to stress the importance of healthy living and early medical intervention.
He praised Nwagwu for turning personal loss into a campaign that could benefit countless others.
Speaking about his own health journey, Obasanjo disclosed that he has lived with diabetes for more than 40 years.
“I have a disease that is not curable yet, and that’s diabetes. I was diagnosed diabetic more than 40 years ago. I still manage it,” Obasanjo said.
The former president explained that maintaining a strict lifestyle routine has enabled him to remain physically active despite his age.
“But what do I do? I play squash three times a week—Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, if I’m around. I watch what I eat. Diet can be exciting; it can be pleasurable. But if you eat badly, then the consequence can also be bad for you. And then rest,” he said.
According to him, adequate rest is just as important as proper nutrition and exercise.
“You saw me early this morning. Then I went to church. Then I came back and I told my boy that the only time he can wake me up is when you come. And when I must rest, I will rest,” he said.
