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 d!ed 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.
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