Obasanjo Says He Has an Incurable Disease

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo disclosed on Sunday that he has been managing diabetes for more than 40 years.

He said that disciplined living, a healthy diet, regular exercise, sufficient rest, routine medical checkups and strict adherence to prescribed medication have enabled him to keep the condition under control for decades.

Obasanjo spoke at the launch of the “Lagos to the World” expedition, a global road journey designed to raise cancer awareness, promote early detection and foster African integration. The event took place at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

The former president highlighted the importance of healthy living and early medical intervention while praising entrepreneur and BMW enthusiast Erik Nwagwu for launching the initiative in memory of his late mother and sister, both of whom died of cancer.

He commended Nwagwu for turning a personal tragedy into a campaign that could benefit many people.

Speaking about his own health journey, Obasanjo said, “I have a disease that is not yet curable, and that’s diabetes. I was diagnosed with diabetes more than 40 years ago. I still manage it.”

The former president explained that maintaining a strict lifestyle routine has allowed him to remain physically active despite his age.

“But what do I do? I play squash three times a week—Monday, Wednesday and Friday, if I’m around. I watch what I eat,” he said. “Diet can be exciting, can be pleasurable. But if you eat badly, then the consequences can also be bad for you. And then rest,” he added.

According to him, adequate rest is as important as proper nutrition and exercise, and he summarized his approach to healthy living with the acronym “DREMS.”

“So diet, rest and exercise are very, very important. And then there’s what I call DREMS. D for Diet, R for Rest, E for Exercise and M for Medical,” Obasanjo added.

He stressed the significance of early diagnosis and routine medical screening, urging Nigerians to take regular health checkups seriously.

Earlier, Nwagwu explained that the “Lagos to the World” expedition would be carried out in phases, culminating in a round‑the‑world journey next year.

He said that one of the major objectives of the expedition is to raise awareness about prostate cancer, particularly among African men.

“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 said.

He disclosed that the initiative, in partnership with Zuri Health, is offering free screenings.

Nwagwu added that strengthening African integration and fostering a positive perception of Nigeria are two other important goals of the mission.

“Africa’s problems should be solved within Africa. And you know the narrative concerning Nigerians and Nigeria. Most of what you see in the press are negative stories. The good ones do not spread as much. There are many Nigerians doing many positive things,” he said.