Obasanjo reveals secret that kept him going despite 40 years of diabetes

By Adejoke Adeleye

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has revealed how he has successfully managed diabetes for more than four decades, using his personal health journey to underscore the importance of healthy living, regular medical check-ups and early disease detection.

Obasanjo made the disclosure in Abeokuta, Ogun State, while commending a cancer awareness initiative established in memory of a mother and daughter who both died from cancer.

The event, organised by the Lagos to the World Initiative at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), focused on promoting cancer awareness, early diagnosis and preventive healthcare.

The former president praised the organisers for transforming a painful family tragedy into a life-saving campaign aimed at educating Nigerians about cancer prevention and management.

“You lost your mother through cancer and your sister through the same ailment. Many people would have said there was nothing they could do, but you thought of a unique and innovative way of doing something about it,” Obasanjo said.

Using his own experience as an example, Obasanjo disclosed that he was diagnosed with diabetes more than 40 years ago but has continued to live an active and productive life through discipline and proper health management.

“I was diagnosed with diabetes more than 40 years ago, and I still manage it,” he said, stressing that regular exercise, balanced nutrition, adequate rest and routine medical examinations have helped him remain healthy.

The elder statesman revealed that he still plays squash several times a week whenever his schedule permits and closely monitors his diet to keep his condition under control.

Obasanjo expressed concern that many Nigerians neglect routine health checks until illnesses become severe, warning that many diseases can be effectively treated or managed when detected early.

According to him, regular screening remains one of the most powerful tools for preventing avoidable deaths and complications from chronic diseases.

The event also featured the unveiling of an ambitious global road expedition by Nigerian adventurer and founder of the Lagos to the World initiative, U. Erik Nwagwu, who announced plans to drive across multiple continents to promote prostate cancer awareness and African unity.

Nwagwu said the expedition, which is dedicated to the memory of his late mother and sister, would begin with journeys across West Africa before expanding to Europe, Asia, North America, South America and Australia.

Beyond raising awareness about prostate cancer, the expedition aims to project a more positive image of Nigeria globally and promote stronger economic and cultural integration across Africa.

“Prostate cancer, especially among black men and in Sub-Saharan Africa, is the leading cause of cancer deaths among males. Many people do not go for testing, which is why awareness is very important,” Nwagwu said.

He urged men above the age of 40 to undergo annual Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) tests, noting that early detection significantly increases treatment success rates.

The campaign is being supported by partners including Axa Mansard Insurance, BMW Club Nigeria and health technology company Zuri Health, which is providing free health screenings covering prostate cancer, blood pressure, blood sugar and body mass index checks.

Nwagwu said the initiative is also designed to challenge negative stereotypes about Nigeria by showcasing stories of resilience, innovation and positive contributions by Nigerians at home and abroad.